Lychgate To Parish Church Of Holy Trinity On South Side

This lychgate, built in 1894, provides access to the Parish Church of Holy Trinity on its south side. Designed by Henry Wilson of London, who was associated with the Arts and Crafts movement, it is constructed of timber on stone pedestals, with rendered brick panels, and has a slate roof with lead detailing.

The lychgate features a broad central archway, flanked by lower, narrower openings to either side. The main arch rests on four substantial square posts with moulded bases, which are set upon stone pedestals with moulded caps. The sides of the archway are framed with massive timberwork. Lower panels are made of cemented red brick, while central panels are open, with moulded wooden mullions and ornamental iron bars. Inscriptions are displayed on the upper wooden panels, commemorating John Mill, the parish’s chanter for fifty-one years, and the dates 1836 and 1887. The flat, plank ceiling is supported by three arches, two of which display carved shields with coats of arms. The flanking openings are simpler, with single wooden posts on concrete plinths. The roof has swept eaves, a moulded wood cornice, and decorative lead flowers along the ridge; a finial is missing from the east end. A projecting canopy, supported by carved brackets, extends from either side of the main arch, with an ornate lead cresting along the edges. The wooden gates within the openings have decorative iron strap hinges, sunk panels with applied strapwork, and carved dolphins at the top of the uprights. One of the side gates has been removed.

The lychgate shows signs of deterioration, including rust on the iron bars, loss of a lead finial, a missing base to one post, and cracks in the woodwork. Henry Wilson was a noted architect who worked alongside J.D. Sedding and is considered a significant figure in the Arts and Crafts movement.