Forest of Rossendale. 157 



" We, the undersigned, are consenting that the Petitioners have such 

 Faculty granted them, and we certify that the same will be of great use and 

 Benefit. 



"(Signed) John Welsh, minister. 

 Richard Eastwood, 

 Law. Ormerod, 

 Jno. Ashworth, 



Jno. Ashworth, ^ Chapel Wardens.' 



Jno. Lord, 

 Daniel Eastwood, 

 James Ashworth, 

 Henry Hoyle, 



A Faculty was granted for the enlargement of the Chapel in 

 compliance with this petition, with authority for the said John 

 Ormerod and John Hargreaves to sell and dispose of the additional 

 pews for the purpose, in part, of repaying the costs and expenses 

 incurred by them ; and many pews were so disposed of to various of 

 the Inhabitants. 



The building becoming dilapidated, it was in the year 1824-5 

 taken down, rebuilt, and again enlarged. This is commemorated 

 on a Tablet within the building as follows : — 



" This Church was enlarged and rebuilt, 182$, when 453 additional sittings 

 were provided, and 227 rendered free by means of a grant from the Society for 

 enlarging and Rebuilding Churches and Chapels." 



On its consecration in 1826, the Church was dedicated to St. 

 Nicholas. Its architecture is substantial in character, with but 

 little elaboration. Its position is an elevated and pleasant one ; and 

 with the village in its rear, and the green slope of the hill of Seat- 

 naze in the background, it constitutes, when viewed from the 

 opposite side of the valley, an attractive and charming picture. In 

 the tower is a peal of Six Bells. Some years ago the Ringers of 

 Newchurch were favourably known for their precision and skill in 

 ringing the different changes, and frequent contests were held with 

 the Ringers of other towns ; but of recent years these competitive 

 meetings have not taken place. 



