1. The Font

The font at St Mary’s features a classic tub-like design that echoes traditional Romanesque styles. Its decoration includes a broad wreath of roses and swirling acanthus leaves, elements that symbolise beauty, resilience, and the promise of resurrection. While the design reflects an ancient aesthetic, the precision of the carving suggests it was crafted during the industrial age, likely using machine techniques rather than the hand-sculpting typical of earlier Norman craftsmanship.

Over the centuries, the font at St Mary’s has had several homes within the church. Historically, fonts were placed near the main entrance to signify the beginning of the Christian journey through baptism. In the early 18th century, the font was located at the northwest corner of the nave, close to what is now the Wenman tomb. By 1854, it had been moved to a position near the less-used south door. The current font, introduced in 1866 during renovations by architect G.E. Street, was relocated to align with the altar, symbolising its integral role in the church’s worship.