St Mary's Church, Steeple Ashton

St Mary's is a glorious church, all seemingly of one build in the late 15th century and 16th century. The spire on the tower was blown down in 1670, robbing the village of its “steeple”.

Inside all has rich lierne vaulting, all in stone except for the nave roof which is of wood. The aisles have niches between the windows, with a wonderful collection of carved corbels - when full of statues (if indeed they ever were) the effect must have been stunning. Outside again, the church bristles with pinnacles and flying buttresses, the pinnacles of the aisles and chancel exceptionally tall.

However it was a very simple memorial that caught my eye - a small obelisk to a 17 year old John Sharp d.1814 - in complete contrast to the grandeur all around.

(Information provided by Phil Draper)