A Brief History

A Chapel of Ease, known as the Quebec Chapel, was originally on the site from 1787 and this was replaced by the present Church designed by Walter Tapper in 1911. In addition Tapper designed many of the features including the magnificent reredos which was painted by Jack Bewsey who also designed most of the stained glass. The maple parquet flooring was given by the people of Canada.

The incumbent responsible for the building of the Church was Revd. Bernard D D Shaw who was commemorated after his death in 1922 by the full length brass in the chancel.

Features of the Church include:

St George’s Altar

This was designed by Tapper and has the sumptuous peacock frontal in silk, saved from the high altar of the old Quebec Chapel which is an excellent example of Victorian embroidery.

Stations of the Cross

The beautifully crafted Stations of the Cross in plaster are from wooden designs executed by the celebrated sculptor, Alois de Beule of Ghent.

Organ and Case

The organ was built in 1915 by Sir Frederick Rothwell with the outstanding case designed by Tapper. The organ underwent a major restoration by Bishop and Son in 1989.

Rood Screen (Rainbow Arch)

Another feature designed by Tapper and thought to have been crafted by Bridgeman of Lichfield.

Other features

The Lampidarium and font cover are thought to have come from St Chad’s Roman Catholic cathedral in Birmingham and investigations are continuing as to whether they are connected with Pugin.

Research into the Church’s past has only recently been undertaken and if you have any information we would be glad to receive it at the contact email address.

Unfortunately it is generally only possible to open the Church at Service times, but everyone is welcome to look around afterwards. A brochure about the Annunciation and its history should be available in the not too distant future.