St Peter’s, Peterchurch

St Peter’s Church has stood on the banks of the River Dore since before Norman times. It is probable that there was a Celtic Christian community on the site from as early as the 6th century; what is certain is that there was a Saxon church at Peterchurch: the undercroft and walls have traces of Saxon stonework from the 9th century or thereabouts. The building also houses an ancient Saxon stone altar decorated with five incised crosses. When the Normans came, they built the church’s three stunning arches.

There are four partitions in the church and the 13th century bell tower has a ring of six bells. The spire is made of fibreglass, the original stone slates being removed in the 1940s and the new spire installed in the 1970s.

The remodelling within the building took place from 2008 – 2009. Pews were removed, underfloor heating commissioned and a modern ‘pod’ installed. The pod houses a kitchen, lift, disabled toilet and mezzanine floor, the latter giving access to the bell tower which now houses the community library. The building then became dual use: both a church and a children’s centre.

In 2017, the children’s centre closed and The Hub at St Peter’s community development project was born. This project continues today and comprises a community café, library, helpline and exhibition space/venue for hire. The Hub is owned and managed by the PCC who employ two part-time staff to run it. These staff are ably supported by many local volunteers.

Outside in the churchyard, the ancient yew tree has been dated and is thought to be over 2,000 years old. You will also find directions to the grave of Robert Jones VC: 2nd Battalion of the 24th Regiment of Foot; Battle of Rorkes Drift, Zulu War, South Africa, 1879. (Words: 297)