Framing England's History: The impact of time and the elements on St Thomas’ Window, Heights Chapel, Friarmere

08 Jan 2025

St Thomas' Church, Friarmere, also known as Heights Chapel, is a redundant Anglican church standing on a hillside overlooking the village of Delph, Greater Manchester, England. It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II* listed building and is under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust.


The church was built in 1765 to serve a growing local population who otherwise had to go to church in Rochdale or Saddleworth. A bellcote was added to the exterior in the 19th century, and fittings were added to the interior during the same century. Many of these fittings were removed to the new parish church in Delph when the old church was closed. It was declared redundant on 16 April 1970, and was vested in the Trust on 24 May 1972.


An early addition to Churches Conservation Trust’s estate Heights Chapel has benefited from significant conservation investment over the years, including extensive repairs in 2020, costing in excess of £20,000.  

However, an estimated £7,000 is required for the much-needed repair of the St Thomas window. Over recent years, this beautiful and significant window has suffered from the exposed position of the church along with a touch of old age. The repairs will restore its integrity, preserving both its artistic value and its role in the spiritual and cultural history of the area.

The funds raised will be used to carefully repair and restore the window, ensuring it continues to be a symbol of heritage for generations to come. The restoration will be done by skilled craftsmen who specialize in historic glass, ensuring that the work is carried out with the utmost care and respect for the chapel's history.

We invite the community, local supporters, and anyone who values cultural heritage to contribute to this campaign. Every donation, no matter the size, will bring us closer to our goal and help protect a piece of local history.

Please visit our webpage, www.visitchurches.org.uk/FRMdonate, to make a donation today.