Luke Myer MP joined parishioners, volunteers and families in Nunthorpe to celebrate the centenary of St Mary the Virgin Church.

The Grade II-listed church, one of the last of its era to be built in the traditional stone style, was consecrated by the Archbishop of York on 20 July 1926.

Luke attended the centenary afternoon tea at the church hall and chatted to residents as well as the Rev’d Canon Tessa Stephens – and also took on an obstacle course organised by local Scouts!

The weekend of celebrations included displays of historic photographs and memorabilia, children’s activities, an evening concert by the Erimus Singers and opportunities for residents to explore the church. Nunthorpe & Marton Knitters also created thousands of knitted flowers for a spectacular “flower walk” along Church Lane. Their contribution included a special mouse wedding display at Nunthorpe Station.

St Mary’s was built following the rapid growth of Nunthorpe around the railway station at the beginning of the twentieth century. The foundation stone was laid by Sir Arthur Dorman on 6 November 1924; he had donated the land for the church, and the Dorman family also contributed significantly towards its construction and furnishings. Designed in the Early English style by Temple Moore & Leslie T. Moore, the church was built using locally quarried sandstone. Its features include a central tower, eight memorial bells and work by the renowned “Mouseman” craftsman Robert Thompson of Kilburn.

The church’s lychgate was dedicated in 1947 as a memorial to local men who died during the Second World War.

Luke Myer MP said:

“St Mary’s has been at the heart of Nunthorpe for a century, bringing people together for worship, friendship and community life.

“It was lovely to join local residents for the celebrations and to see the tremendous work put in by the church, the Scouts, the knitters and everyone who helped make the weekend special. I wish everyone at St Mary’s all the very best for the next 100 years.”