Church of St. Mary, Deane: Restoration

Deane Church near Bolton-le-Moors has been restored. In addition to the restoration, the chancel has been lengthened ten feet. Mr R K Freeman FRIBA of Bolton was the architect. [British Architect 2 January 1885 Page 12]

Works included new roof to nave and chancel, removal of first bay of the north and south galleries, removal of the western gallery and re-fitting Hulton Chapel. [Manchester Guardian 22 October 1883 page 6]

DEANE CHURCH - This building, which is near Bolton-le-Moors, is about to be restored. A view of the roof was published last week. The roof is an interesting example of the work of the period when it was erected. The sunken traceried panels in the principals and the carving in the Spandrils are particularly quaint, although somewhat rough in execution. The building is one of the few old churches remaining in the district with any architectural character, and is about to be restored under the direction of Mr. R. R. Knill Freeman, F.R.I.B.A., of Bolton. The contemplated works are a new oak roof, following in all respects the design of the old one, and re-using any of the beams which may be sufficiently sound; removal of the west gallery and organ, also of one bay at east end of side galleries; forming baptistery under tower, and opening out the arch between nave and tower; extension of the chancel, and other works. [The Architect 23 February 1884 page 131]

DEANE CHURCH near Manchester, is in course of restoration at an outlay of £3,000. A new roof is being placed over nave, exactly reproducing the old one as far as design and carving are concerned, but protected by a felt covering, and resting on stone in lieu of wooden corbels. The galleries are being removed both on the north and south aisles, and new seats are being provided at the west end of nave, in which the oak beams from the old roof will be utilised, it having been decided to sell none of the old oak. At the same time, the chancel is being extended eastwards, and will be 22 feet instead of, as at present, 15 feet. The passages are also to be re-laid, and all stonework repaired. [Building News 29 August 1884 page 367]

Reference        Manchester Guardian 22 October 1883 page 6
Reference        British Architect 2 January 1885 Page 12
Reference        The Architect 23 February 1884 page 131
Reference        Building News 29 August 1884 page 367