Village churches south of Lancaster to take part in heritage open days

Spend an afternoon looking around the hidden gem of St John’s Church Ellel near Lancaster.

Whilst not the oldest parish Church in the area, St John’s is full of history.

Built in 1907 by the efforts of its community, St John’s is an outstanding example of the architecture of local architects Paley and Austin.

It also boasts some outstanding Shrigley and Hunt stained glass windows as well as many unique artefacts relating to the surrounding areas.

Tours will run during the open afternoons, conducted by local historian and parishioner Shaun Corkerry.

There will be brief talks to give context and tell the story of the three Parish Churches of Ellel since 1154. Refreshments will also be available.

The church will be open on Sunday September 13 from 1pm to 4pm and Saturday September 19 from 1pm to 4pm.

Discover the sacred space that is St James Shireshead, Whinney Brow Ln, Forton, Preston.

When John Bickerdike arrived in Forton as vicar in 1879, one of the first things that struck him was the distance of the church from the parsonage.

With an extensive garden at the parsonage, he made it his mission to build a new church.

Plans were drawn up by Adams and Kelly of Leeds and paying two thirds of the £1,700 cost himself, John got his wish.

On September 17 1889, St James Shireshead was consecrated and superseded the old church of St Paul’s Shireshead.

The church will be open between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, September 20 with artefacts, photographs, parishioners available and the organ, built by Abbot and Smith of Leeds will be played during the afternoon.

Refreshments will also be available.