The restoration of the J Halmshaw & Sons organ of Birmingham was completed in time for Christmas 2025. This very special organ (c.1879) with its beautiful hammered lead pipes is listed in The National Pipe Organ Register (Ref No 14710) as being an instrument of importance for the national heritage and one deserving careful preservation for the benefit of future generations. The citation says that the organ is a rare survivor from the workshop of Isaac Abbott from 1881 with an exquisite tonal scheme and sensitively designed for a difficult location. The Minstrels Gallery which now houses the organ dates from 1738. The restoration was completed and the railings were installed round the Minstrels Gallery in time for Christmas 2025
The church is grateful for the superb restoration undertaken by Richard Young and his assistant Mike Sole: the organ looks and sounds beautiful. A recital, to be performed by the celebrated organist Keith Hearnshaw , will take place in the church on Saturday 18th April at 2.30 pm. All are welcome to attend.
The church is grateful for the generous contribution from OHCT, without which this restoration would not have been possible.
History
All Saints dates mainly from the early 14th century, with many interesting architectural features and links to historic events. The clerestory was added to this Grade II* listed church in the 15th century. The font, originally 14th century, was likely re carved between 1845-46. The 5 Bells were cast by Henry Bagley in 1676.
A striking feature within the Chancel is the 16th century elaborately carved stone memorial to William Pope and his wife and the tombs of Sir Francis North, Keeper of the Great Seal, and most notably Lord Frederick North, Prime Minister of Great Britain 1770-1782 during the reign of George III. The Chancel was re roofed in 1755 and repaired in 1993 at the expense of Sir David Money-Coutts, descendant of Thomas Coutts founder of Coutts Bank. There is a memorial to Thomas Coutts on the North wall.
The East end of the South Aisle retains the moulded frame of a reredos on the wall. The East window is one of a pair with that on the North aisle given by Colonel North. The communion rails have 17th century panels also given by Colonel North.
