Astley Bridge Cemetery chapel's new artwork unveiled

Since it was damaged in an arson attack over six years ago, the chapel in Astley Bridge Cemetery has sat in a 'poor state'.

However, it has recently been revived by the Astley Bridge community, with artwork designed by schoolchildren and community groups having been put in its windows and doorways.

An unveiling of the artwork took place with all of the schools and community groups attending, as well as keen residents who wanted to catch their first glimpse of it.

Ward councillor Hilary Fairclough with Sharples Primary School pupils (Image: Public)

Cllr Hilary Fairclough said: "I am so proud of all our schools and community groups in the area, they are always so supportive of Astley Bridge and always contribute to our art displays.

"The work has been funded by our Area Forum. Our local schools and community groups have had free reign to design at least one window and they have all done a truly magnificent job.

"The remembrance window is one we designed for the 100 year WW1 commemoration and is the name of everyone from the armed forces who are buried in Astley Bridge Cemetery. It is something I am so pleased will be in the largest of the chapel windows.

Some of the artwork (Image: Public)

"Residents felt the art work really helped to lift the chapel and were amazed at how bright and vibrant the art work is, all recreated by the council's sign shop team Eddie Bickerstaff and Stewart Newsham.

"They have done a really wonderful job and have gone above and beyond to get everything perfect. I was so excited to see them all in place."

Schools and community groups involved in the project included Sharples School, Sharples Primary, The Oaks Primary, High Lawn Primary, Holy Infant and St Anthony RC Primary, St Pauls CE Primary, and Thornleigh Salseian College, as well as the Drummond Street Crafting Group and Oldhams Church.

Artwork (Image: Public)

Gemma Partington, headteacher at Sharples Primary School, said: "Sharples Primary School were very excited to be involved in this community project, and the children recognise their work would be available for others to see for many years to come.

"We researched stain glass windows and then altered the school badge to match the shape of the window. By being involved, we felt our school motto of being Stronger Together was very apt."

Rev Hartley of St Paul's Astley Bridge will be holding a Remembrance Day service at the cemetery on November 11 at 11am.