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Whickham Church Green
In the early 20th century the church green was hard baked clay and rubble!
After World War One it was used as a car park. It was also the venue for the annual Hoppings. On the first night their was a customary free ride for children, who came straight from school eager to claim their free ride. In 1935 the Hoppings were cancelled as it rained all day. The showmen refused to pay the rent so consequently the rector would no longer allow the Hoppings to be held on the Church Green.
In 1953 it was taken over by The Council and it was laid out as it is today.
Comments
Could you tell me when this church was built? Both my boys were Christened here and I was also wondering if you had the Priests names from the last 15 years. I think Father Miichael was the name of one of the priests, but I'm not sure. Thank you so very much.
Appreciatively,
Jane Miller
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Thanks for your comment. The church in the photograph is St. Mary's and is originally 12th century but much of it is of a later date and it was extensively 'restored' in 1862. But this is the Church of England, and it seems likely that you may be referring to the Roman Catholic Church, also called St. Mary's. It was founded in 1970 and replaced an earlier building. Please see our Churches page. Sorry we have no information on the Priests at present but any further information will be posted here..
Posted by: Jane Miller at January 4, 2007 12:16 AM