By George, church is newest parish — after 57 years

Photo: Paul Sterritt

The Bishop of Middleton blesses one of the four corners of the church.

St George’s Church, Broadway, is celebrating a new look and a new status as the borough’s newest parish church.

The building was consecrated by the Rt Rev Mark Davies, Bishop of Middleton on Sunday - 57 years after the foundation stone was laid.

St George’s was originally built as a daughter chuch to the Emmanuel Parish Church in Chestnut Street, consecrated in 1911. The M60 split the parish and St George’s took on greater significance, eventually superceding its closed parent church.

Last summer a £400,000 refurbishment began, which was completed at Easter. The consecration windows and wood carvings from the Emmanuel church have been incorporated in the building.

The service was attended by 150 people. The vicar, the Rev Dave Leaf, said: “We are grateful for all those from the local community who continue to support our work.”