Chollerton-Churches.org.uk

The Parish Church of St Giles, Birtley

The original stone church in Birtley, Northumberland was erected on the present site by the Umfravilles, Lords of Prudhoe and 'Keepers of Redesdale' and consecrated in 1090. There are, however, indications of an earlier wooden Saxon church, probably dating from the 7th century. A memorial stone from these earlier times is set into the chancel wall.

In the 13th century the religious administration of the church passed to the Prior and Convent of Hexham while the responsibility for its fabric maintenance rested with the Lords of the Manor of Chipchase. Border raids possibly took their toll because little repair work was done and by 1610 'the church was ruynouse and lying down' and in need of everything from a surplice to a seat for the minister and a table of the Ten Commandments.

Birtley church was 'coarsely rebuilt for present use' in 1723 but it was to be 1883-4 before there was a major renovation of the structure and fittings of the church. This has preserved some of the church's Early Norman features - the priest's door in the south wall of the chancel (over which the stones of the original east window of the Norman church have been inserted); the Piscina in the south wall of the sanctuary; the Aumbrey in its north wall; the Chancel Arch with its hatchet dressed moulding; and the massive Font bowl - and this is the Birtley church we know today.

You can contact the Benefice at the following:

The Revd J Wylam
The Vicarage,
Chollerton,
Nr Hexham,
Northumberland
NE46 4TF

01434 681721
Email

Hadrian Awards 2007
Gunnerton Church has been given a prestigious Hadrian Award. Hadrian Awards celebrate and promote the best in architecture and design of the built environment in the North East and Cumbria.

To be selected for an award, schemes must meet a number of criteria, including being fit for purpose, and be an innovative trail-blazer. Both these aspects of the Award and more have been met.

The award is a tribute to Vincente Stienlet of Gosforth, our architect, who was sympathetic to the heritage of the church, the needs of the congregation and the community.