Being born and bred in Wisbech, I lived close to Walpole St Peter for many years without realising what a jewel its church is.
I discovered this special gem in Simon Jenkins‘ best seller, England’s Thousand Best Churches, where it was awarded five stars – the highest accolade – and visited it on his recommendation for the first time about seven years ago.
When I first stepped inside, I was immediately struck by its wonderful light and vast windows, the painted panels on its screen and its dark inward facing pews, and wondered when this very special Marshland church was last full. I wholeheartedly agree with Simon who says: “Inside, there is hardly a disappointment”.
The church, a short drive from the Queen’s Sandringham estate, is also much admired by Prince Charles, who has donated to its latest fundraising appeal.
I have returned there few times as I can never resist calling in when I am in the area now that I have discovered it, which I did yesterday. My mother and I have also joined its small and welcoming congregations for its Good Friday service, and I misguidedly thought that its sheer architectural beauty would attract a throng of worshippers.
Thank you Simon Jenkins for highlighting what a rare treasure this fabulous church is. In Simon’s words: “The ‘Queen of Marshlands’ deserves more respect than she has been accorded…..If English churches were Dutch Old Masters, this would be St Pieter de Hooch”
I urge you to see it for yourself.
My parents live in Sutton-on-Sea.
I know Lincolnshire quite well. The churches (and pubs) are gems.
The changes to Lincolnshire have been astonishing in recent years. So too Devon as it happens.
Being a Londoner I’m used to it being cosmopolitan – but bloody hell. But I honestly feel that ethnic cleansing of the English is being undertaken.
PS – the small town in Surrey which I was raised in is now ‘Twinned with Lagos’ as some wag has inscribed on the sign on its perimeter.
Sorry to be so negative.
I saw War Horse last night btw. A very good film indeed. Of late the American movie industry has been showing the English in a positive light.
Perhaps we might begin taking pride in ourselves.
Hi Kevin, I should have said that Walpole St Peter is in Norfolk, though part of the Isle of Ely Diocese. Ethnicity is not an issue here. In fact, the Catholic Church in Wisbech (down the road from where my mother lives) is filled with migrant worshippers each week.
Yes. There is an increase in all sorts of faiths, though not C of E in so far as I can gather.
I’m sure it’s lovely and thanks for telling us about the book.
I shall look it up in his book. Sorry to hear about the demise of your dear town.
Hello Elle.
I don’t suppose you will remember me, but I recall you as a court reporter in Cambridge? Or was it in Wisbech?
After 35 years in Cambridge Ann and I returned to our beloved Fens, and live in Wisbech St Mary, where I am a member of the parish church’s ministry team. This village is very active with meetings of various organisations each evening. In addition I am chairman of the Wisbech Society, and as such was very interested in your article. I’m sure a lot of residents of Wisbech are feeling uncomfortable with the present situation. However, I think the point must be made that those migrants who have jobs in this locality are very hard workers and I venture to suggest they are filling jobs that the local men and women are refusing.
It would be nice to have a chat when you visit Wisbech again. I was pleased to read of all your success and your exciting contacts. Long may it continue.
With very best wishes,
Brian Payne. (40 years on the Cambridge Bench!)
Hi Brian,
Of course I remember you, and how nice to hear from you after all this time. I’m delighted to learn how active your church is, and if I lived in Wisbech, I would certainly be a member of the Wisbech Society.
Thank you for your comment about hard working migrants, and I certainly agree with this. I hope the local paper will highlight their positive contribution to the town to redress any negative images. It would be good if they could focus on positive case studies.
I have your email address and will certainly be in touch.
Best wishes,
Ellee