Opening doors on 160 years
ONE OF Calderdale’s finest architectural gems will open its doors for a special anniversary service.
All Souls Church at Haley Hill, Halifax will provide the historic backdrop to the service to mark the 160th anniversary of its consecration. The service, on Saturday, November 2 at 11.30am is being organised by Halifax Minster.
The service, led by Reverend Canon Hilary Barber from Halifax Minster, will be followed by refreshments in the old Sunday school across the road.
All Souls was commissioned in 1856 by local industrialist Edward Akroyd, who appointed Sir George Gilbert Scott as architect. Scott considered the church, completed three years later, in 1859, to be his finest. Among its features are a 72-metre-high spire and dazzling stained glass created by Victorian master craftsmen.
Designated by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building, the church is now redundant and under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust – which this year is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
All Souls is opened up to the public only a handful of times per year but the doors will be unlocked for the anniversary service, which will last one hour and is open to everyone.
Vicar of Halifax, Rev Canon Hilary Barber said: “All Souls is a truly historic building, steeped in history, and this special anniversary service is an exciting opportunity for people to sing in the surroundings of one of the finest churches in West Yorkshire.
“This is a short service which makes it accessible to people of all ages.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to All Souls.”
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