The Church

 

St Mary    Magdalene Church     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Church is recognized as the first church designed by Gilbert Scott, one of the  most famous of Victorian architects who also designed St Pancras Station,the Albert Memorial and other notable buildings.

 

 

There are three stained glass windows, two on the south wall and the magnificent east window, which was put in place in 1958. The work of John Hayward of the Faithcraft Works of St Albans and Westminster, it shows Christ triumphant after the resurrection.

The central section was the gift of the Moore family in memory of their parents who are buried in the churchyard. The family firm, Moores Motorcycles, began business at the Old Forge in Hogpits Bottom in 1920 and still trades in Hemel Hempstead. The side panels in the window were added after money was raised by the villagers.

 

 

 

 

It has a small turret containing a clock and a single bell. Originally three bells, dated 1578, were taken from the old church. 
The bell was not all that was brought up the hill from the old church. The font is a fine example of mediaeval stonework. 

The communion rails are reputed to be made of wood from the old church as is the massive south entrance door. 

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