Christ Church Ore

The church was built in 1859 by Revd Twist Turner who commissioned London architects Alexander Dick Gough and Robert Lewis Roumieu, known for their curious and distinctive gothic designs. A unique octagonal turret clock tower has been described as ‘naughty’ by Nikolaus Pevsner, a notable historian. Reverend Twist Turner provided a stunning church for the poverty stricken working class area where the near bye work house was enlarged twice (famous historical novelist dame Catherine Cookson worked there).

The very large stained glass windows are all lancet, tall pointed, designs incorporating vents for the old gas lighting. These include depictions of Saint Micheal, Gabriel and then beautiful scenes of hope (holding a golden anchor) and faith (holding a cross), Jesus with families and children, as the light of the world holding a lantern and the risen Christ dazzling the women at the tomb. The seven bays of the elaborate altar window depict the Saints Peter, Matthew, Mark, Luke John and Paul with Jesus in the centre.

The chancel is a striking example of neogothic design with intricate Victorian floor tiles, a small triplet arched arcade leading to the vestry with marble columns incorporating a plaque dedicated to members of the choir who died in the first world war. The altar and reredos are oak panelled above which are plaques depicting the 10 commandments, with the Lord’s Prayer and the Creed on the north and south walls. The choir stalls and the working organ surrounds are intricately carved oak with stylishly decorated organ pipes. The wooden oak lectern and raised pulpit are tastefully carved with dedication brass plaques incorporated in their bases. Both the channel arch and rear altar wall (above the altar window) are stunningly painted in vibrant colours and gold leaf. 

There are many wall plaques around the church including the sad dedication to a 19 year old bugler who died in the South African Frontier.