Derek (The Rev Derek Drapper) was born and educated in Whitstable, Kent . He attended the then London Bible College, and has pastored churches in Whitstable, Kent; Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham, Glos; Keynsham, Somerset; Saltford Somerset; Stratford, East London; and Bootle, Liverpool.

He now preaches in a variety of churches – usually in the Dorset/Hants area, but also much further distant.

Derek was married to Muriel in Whitstable in 1953 and we have 3 children, 13 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild …. and another due early in November!  They are all a great delight to us and we thank God for them.

When Muriel and I were first asked to help the church at Stuckton there were 4 elderly members and the church was in danger of closing. Now - after sevral funerals! - the church is more than surviving! We have a lot of support from churches and friends in the locality and there are a number of things going on which attract many different kinds of people and are a blessing well beyond Stuckton.  Our special joy at present is the commencement in October of Cafe Church. 

We thank God frequently for His gracious help in maintaining the work here. However, we are not merely hoping that this will be one country church that will not actually close its doors. We are praying that in His mercy God will build a viable church in this tiny village and make it a blessing to the village and way beyond. We are aware that we are not able to achieve this and need, not only God’s gracious help but the friendship and prayers of God’s people.

A lot of people are already praying for Stuckton and we invite you to join us. If you make contact through the Contact us page we will gladly add you to our list of Friends of Stuckton, please give us your e-mail address or if you are not on e-mail your postal address so that we can keep you informed. Thank you so much.

Rev. Derek Drapper is available for preaching, Bible teaching, funerals and other special events. Please contact me, in the first instance through our Contact Us page and give your name address and telephone number.

Thank you!