St John the Evangelist Church, Hurst
Kings Road, Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, OL6 8EZ
Consecrated in 1849, the church was built by mill owner Oldham Whittaker and is the only Anglican place of worship in the Parish. It was designed in a Gothic style by E.H. Shellard and built by Eaton and Hollus.
The north and south transepts, Whittaker Chapel, tower and spire, a significant local landmark, were added in 1862. This architect was George Shaw of Saddleworth and the unique dark oak reredos, panelling and artefacts, as well as the stained-glass windows, are all his work.
Many memorial tablets, along with archived records denote the church's history and reflect local life over many years.
The church was presented with a ship's bell from HMS Centaur and the colours of the 3rd (Militia) battalion are preserved in The Whittaker Chapel. Our unique organ was built by George Sixsmith of Mossley, as a thank you for the spiritual comfort given to his wife by the church during the years before her death.
Our churchyard holds the remains of the Whittakers, along with a large number of soldiers, various poets and interesting local folk including PC William Jump who was killed on duty in 1862.
Baptism records will be available and various displays giving details of our amazing history will bring our story to life.
Kings Road, Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, OL6 8EZ
Wheelchair access to all parts of the church except the Chancel. Guide Dogs and Assistance Dogs very welcome