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The History of the Church of England in Cramlington The first record of a church building in Cramlington is of a Norman chapel in the the mid-twelfth century. But by the mid-seventeenth century, after years of neglect under Cromwell, the chapel was in a poor state of repair, and a decision was taken to rebuild it. The new building, completed in about 1680, was described as sturdy and able to accommodate all worshippers. It had glazed windows fitted with shutters, and a slated nave and leaded chancel. The interior was plain, with a stone altar, some seats and the floor covered with rushes. There were candles for lighting and incense to sweeten the air. This chapel lasted until the 1860's, when it was apparent that a larger church building was needed. The population of the town had increased from 346 in 1821 to 2634 in 1841, and it was decided that a new building should be able to seat 500 people. The first meeting about the new church took place in 1843 but a second meeting did not take place until 1856. The design of the church is said to have been adapted from a design by John Dobson of Newcastle, and the architects were Austin & Johnson.   It was built by Waterston & Stafford of Morpeth at a cost of £3000, and was completed in 1868. It has two stained glass windows by Cottier, one of which is shown here. The new church was consecrated and dedicated by the Bishop of Durham on 12th May 1868. 630 people were present for the service, and the villagers of Cramlington all took a holiday. The altar is of black oak which was taken from the River Blyth. The stone font is inlaid with coloured marble and there are notable carvings on the reredos over the altar, on the lectern (a spread eagle, by Signor Bulletti of Newcastle) and the pulpit (by Mr Stafford of Morpeth). The organ, by Messrs Nicholson of Newcastle, was installed later at a cost of £165. The rood screen, between the chancel and the nave, was installed in 1895. Whilst the new church was being built, an iron Mission Church was built in Shankhouse at a cost of £350, and was known as St. Peter's. It was affectionately called the Tin Church. It was eventually demolished in 1957. More details about the history of the Church and of Cramlington are to be found in the book "The Story of Cramlington" by Alf Smith, published 1980 and © St. Nicholas PCC, from where most of this information was obtained. ^top