Church of St Walburge (RC) Weston Street and Pedder Street Preston
The church was erected at a cost of £15,000, raised entirely by public subscription. Each of the hammer-beam roof trusses was sponsored by an individual donation of £70, while the windows in the sanctuary were each the gift of an individual. The foundation stone was laid in 1850 and the main body of the church opened in 1854. The tower and spire were completed in 1868 and the sanctuary added in 1873. The organ, designed by the eminent Victorian organ builder, ... Hill was installed first in the great loft under the tower but was enlarged and moved to the present position at the west end by Hill in 1878. Spire, the third highest in the country. 22 feet diameter rose window. Talbot Library and Hall - Adjoining the church, these smaller scale buildings were also designed by J.A. Hansom.
The area of the church is 185 feet by 55 feet; the roof in one span consists of 14 principals, each without tie-beam, and mainly composed of curved parts and tracery. The tower is about 28 feet square, exclusive of buttresses, and is to be faced with white limestone. The walls are now up ready for the roof. Views of the interior and exterior may be seen at the printers. [Manchester Guardian 3 July 1852 page 11]
ST WALBURGE'S CHURCH, PRESTON TO BUILDERS - Such persons as are willing to CONTRACT for the Timber Work, Slating, Lead Work and Spouts of the Roof and the Masonry of the Tower to a height of 60 feet, may see the Plans and Specifications, and a model principal with specimen of masonry, by applying to my office Green Bank House, Preston, from Monday the 28th instant to Thursday 7 July inclusive, at which latter date the tenders are to be sent in. JOSH A HANSOM, Architect.
Reference Manchester Guardian 26 June 1852 page 11 - contracts
Reference Manchester Guardian 3 July 1852 page 11 - contracts