Deane Church (also known as St Mary's), Bolton

St Mary The Virgin Church in Deane Parish, Bolton dates back to 1452 and houses some of the finest examples of traditional and modern stained glass windows in the area. The Church, known as Deane Church, and has an interesting history. In the front grave yard is a memorial cross to George Marsh who was burnt at the stake in 1555.
George Marsh was a farmers son, born in Deane, 1515. When Edward VI became King in 1547, Marsh's study of the New Testament led to his appointment as a preaching minister. When King Edward died 6 years later, Queen Mary sought to re-establish the old religion, Marsh became victim to her persecution of the reformers. He appeared before Justice Barton at Smithills Hall accused of preaching false doctrines. However he made a stand for his beliefs, he was tried and convicted. He was imprisoned at Chester and finally burnt at the stake April 24th 1555.  ​
 Stained Glass Restoration
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We have been responsible for the restoration and protection of the stained glass at Deane Church, for over 15 years. 
As part of the on going program of restoration, we have removed and completely restored many stained glass panels including the First World War Memorial window depicting the Patron Saints of England and Wales. The restoration involved complete re-leading and replacing broken painted pieces. 

To read more about stained glass restoration click here.
 
The New Chapel
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The removal and restoration of the modern stained glass in the new chapel has also been carried out after the stained glass had started to bow out dramatically. The restored panels had extra, specially made, strengthening bars added before refitting into the stone frame.


To find out more about stained glass restoration and repair click here.
Window Protection

Most of the windows at the church have also been protected
using polycarbonate plastic and laminated glass to give the highest standard of stained glass protection. The east window, pictured left, which holds some of the oldest stained glass in the church was protected using 42 individually
cut pieces of polycarbonate contoured to the shape of the stone. The polycarbonate was mounted on brackets to allow air circulation and stop condensation. All the fixings were made from stainless steel and drilled into the mortar joints where possible.

​For more about stained glass window protection and security click here.


To see another Church Stained Glass project, click here.