Summary : A parish church built during the early 12th century and situated in an area of a medieval settlement and alien priory for Benedictine monks. The building consists a west tower, nave with south porch and chancel and is constructed of green sandstone rubble blocks, limestone ashlar dressings and some red brick. The roofs are constructed of either lead or slate.The early 12th century chancel arch of four orders survives as well as a fragment of wall painting from this period with crowned head and initial 'M' above the north arch. In the tower roof are three elongated wingless angels probably reset from the original roof. The chancel with lancet can be seen to date from the 13th century. The font is early 15th century as is the flowered statue bracket. Alterations carried out in the late 15th century include rectangular windows inserted in the south side of the chancel and to the east as well as a doorway and tower arch. During the early 16th century the three stage tower and buttresses were constructed with sundial above the south west buttress. Two early 16th century rectangular windows also survive. The pine pulpit is 17th century and a marble monument to Hugh Allington, died 1674 survives from this period. A decorative table tomb survives from the early 18th century and in the late 18th century the south side upper part was rebuilt in brick with small lancet. The gabled porch to the west with re-used 15th century headed doorway also dates from this time. Additions in the 19th century include a decorative oak alter rail and reredos with ornate piers. The tie beam roofs and wooden pews also date to the period. Several monuments of marble are dedicated to Charles Bancroft, died 1808, Matthew Bancroft-Lister, died 1842 and Elizabeth Yorke, died 1845. The 20th century alterations included some brick patching and 2 and 3 stage buttressing to help support the south wall of the nave. |