Church of St Luke, Rochdale: Chancel Screen

A new chancel screen in the above church was dedicated by the Lord Bishop of Whalley, D.D., on Saturday last, before a large congregation. The screen, which is of the best Crown Austrian oak, is handsomely carved and enriched, and is comprised of seven bays, the centre bay being 6 feet wide, with arch and pediment over, surmounted by a large oak cross, and in the centre of the pediment the sacred monogram, "I.H.C.,"is carved. The screen is so designed as to cause as little as possible obstruction of the view of the chancel and choir, the larger portion of the enrichment, cuspings, etc., being well above the eye level. Carved paterae of the Tudor rose, etc., are introduced between the open higher panels and the vine carved along the cornice, finished on the top with battlements. The lower portion of the screen, which is 3ft. 6in. above the chancel floor, is panelled, with carving and enriched cusped heads to the top of each panel. The height of the screen is nearly 16ft., and the width 23ft. On the nave side and on one of the lower panels a small brass plate is attached, with inscription in red and black enamels, as follows: "To the glory of God and in commemoration of the twenty‑fifth anniversary of the dedication of tins church, this screen was erected by parishioners and friends, Ascension‑tide. 1914." The work is in the Decorated style of Gothic architecture, in harmony and keeping with the existing screens, and adds to the effect of an already dignified church. The screen has been carried out from the designs and under the supervision of Mr. Frank R. Freeman, Licentiate of the R.I.B.A., architect, of Bolton, and the work has been executed by Mr. John Hanson, of Burnley. [Building News 29 May 1914 Page 735]

Reference           Building News 29 May 1914 Page 735 with illustration