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The origin and development of Methodism in Morecambe is closely linked with the development of the town itself. An early report states :-

"With the opening of the Little North Western Railway, and the construction of the Harbour Works connecting the Midland Railway system with the sea in 1848, the dawn of a new era arose upon the old-world fishing village of Poulton. The population of the township comprising Poulton, Bare and Torrisholme increased from 1,301 at the census of 1851 to 2,236 at that of 1861.

Among the earliest arrivals attracted, perhaps by the changed conditions were two Methodists, Mr. Henry Gorton, who came from Bentham in 1850 and held a contract for the stone for the construction of the Harbour, and Mr. John Ellis who came in 1953 from Millhouses, near Wray, and opened a grocery shop in the village. These two men were the pioneers of our Methodist work in Morecambe

Mr. Gorton lived for a while in the cottage in Pedder Street, and early gathered together those who would come to a prayer meeting, beginning with four members it speedily gathered others, and soon the place became to small.

Also the care of the children in the village became a pressing need, and a place had to be found to continue, and extend the work. Very modestly Henry Gorton and John Ellis set about their task. A piece of ground in Morecambe Street was rented at £1 per year, and on this site a wooden lean-to building was erected , costing in all £26. With the exception of what the two men gave themselves the whole amount was collected in one day from friends in Lancaster.

However, soon the building in Morecambe Street became to small for the needs of the chrch and the Sunday school.

Thomas and Ellen Hodgson then offered a site in Pedder Street, containing 400 yards, which was bought for £60. Building operations commenced immediately, and on 2nd February 1855 the foundation stone was laid by Mr. Blickerdale of Lancaster. The school children were afterwards provided with a tea in the "shed" by Henry Gorton and John Ellis.

So the chapel in Pedder Street was built, and records state thet it was a "neat structure of stone in early English style, and cost about £400"

Main Entrance

Here is the main entrance to the church. It is much the same as the day it was built (except for the lamppost). 

Here is the new notice board located to the right of the main entrance. This displays information about the church activities. (sadly at the time of photographing it was a little dirty and had some localized bird dirt!)

We also have boards in front of this main board which advertise the services each week.

A view of the front of the church showing details of the upper window. Unfortunately in recent years the wall you see in this picture is starting to fall forward and is in need of repair work. We are currently seeking funding to carry out these vital repairs.

A view taken from the organ, showing the main body of the church. Here you can see the cinema style seating (comfy for a long sermon) and the recently constructed new room, providing an alternative service location or meeting room and containing modern kitchen and toilet facilities.

A view of the two manual tracker action organ, installed in the top center of the church. The organ is still in good condition and is played regually.

A picture showing the main communion area (picture taken at Christmas!) Communion is celebrated frequently. The communion rail if removable, to allow flexibility for dramas and music.  

The church has strong links with the Burma Star Association. And the memorial shown here contains the names of the previous members of the Association who have died. The Organization supports the families of those who lost or have since lost loved ones who fought in Burma.

Always welcoming new members to the church the cradle roll contains the names of all those baptized since the church began. It makes for interesting reading.

The new room window was created by local artist and church member Graham Isherwood and provides a splendid visual highlight to the new room.

A little self indulgence here. Never let it be said that the church doesn't move with the times. Here is the recently install drum kit for use in worship.

People

Shortly pictures and descriptions of the prominent people in our church will appear... Watch this space.