Church of St James Waterfoot

 Sited on Bacup Road close to the centre of Waterfoot. Thirteenth century style. Tenders were invited in 1860 but building work only started in 1864 and on 23rd November 1865 the new church was consecrated, with the first service being held on 26th November 1865. The church spire with six bells and three clock faces were added subsequently with a service of dedication of the spire held on 13th December 1873. The last service was held on 22nd November 1998.

WATERFOOT, LANCASHIRE - For the erection of a church and school at Waterfoot, near New-Church-in-Rosendale, Lancashire. Plans. etc, at the Duke of Buccleugh Inn, on application to Rev. R. Smith, from 9th July. Other information from Messrs. Stevens and Robinson, architects, 22, Sackville-street, London, and 17, Tenant-street, Derby. Tenders, sealed, for church and school separately, addressed to James Crabtree, Esq., chairman of the Committee, New Church, near Manchester, to July 23. (See advertisement.) [Building News 6 July 1860 page 542] [Building News 13 July 1860 page 560]

CONSECRATION OF ST. JAMES'S CHURCH. WATERFOOT - On Thursday, this church which is erected in the midst of a thickly populated and increasing district was set apart for the worship of God by the Lord Bishop of Manchester. The church has been erected by public subscription, one of the principal contributors being the late Mr James Crabtree, of Manchester, at a cost of from £4,000 to £5,000. The patronage is invested in three trustees, George Hargreaves and Robert Munn jun., of Newchurch, and Mr. Edward Ashworth. Of Coupe. The sermon was preached by the Rev. Cameron Hornby, of Bury. At a luncheon after the service, Colonel Munn stated that a petition, influentially and numerously signed, would shortly be presented to the Bishop, asking him to present the Rev. R. Smith to the incumbency of the proposed district of St. James. Messrs. Robinson and Stephens (sic) of Derby. were the architects of the church.

Reference        Building News 13 July 1860 page 560 - contracts
Reference        Preston Herald 25 November 1865 page 7
Reference        Manchester Courier 25 November 1865 page 7