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ST NICHOLAS, DENSTON
Doomsday Book did not record a church in Denston. However a church
(or chapel) existed in the 12th Century on the site of the present
church, which apart from the tower was extensively enlarged and rebuilt
in the 15th Century, because of the founding of a “college”
under the terms of the will of John Denston. Three chantry priests
, one master and two co-brethren were incorporated with the parish
church and ministered to the parishioners. The result was one of the
finest small parish churches in Suffolk, virtually unaltered since
those days, though 30 years ago it was in danger of falling into terminal
disrepair , after a lot of hard work and a very successful restoration
programme, the church is now well worth a visit.
The tower now looks rather overwhelmed by the rest of the church which
is magnificent, with north and south aisles matching the length of
the nave and the chancel. There is much medieval carving such as animals
on the border just below the massive timber roof. A great feature
is the Seven Sacrament Font, one of 36 in East Anglia but only 2 elsewhere
in England. There are numerous monuments, hatchments,and Royal Coats
of Arms. The ancient stalls for the chantry priests still remain in
the chancel and there are a number of old floor brasses depicting
members of local families.
The exterior is equally impressive , with a vaulted porch, a stoup
at the entrance , three scratch dials discernable in the south wall
buttress . A number of stained glass windows, some however modern.
The church stands in a commanding position on Top Green, flanked by
two ancient houses, Church House and Chantry Farm.
Information provided by Percy Nunn - June 21st
2004
More details about St Nicholas, Denston can
also be found on the St
Nicholas, Denston page of the Benefice website
More detailed information about the
Benefice and other interesting facts and information about Wickhambrook
Village can be found on the Bansfield
Benefice website. |
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