Holy Trinity Church, Long Sutton
National Grid Reference - ST469254

     


History King Alfred gave the manor of Long Sutton to the monks of Athelney in 852 who held it until the beginning of the 13th century. The church was consecrated in 1493, and situated in the centre of the village. It is a fine example of a Somerset church and the carved and painted pulpit and screen are of particular interest.

Services A service is held in the church most Sundays. The parish is now part of a team ministrymade up of nine parishes of varying sizes. Information on services is available in the church of from the Team Office (01458 251881)

Bell Ringing The tower has a majestic ring of six bells (tenor approximately 17 cwt). Practice night is Thursday at 7.30. Vistors are always welcome on pracitce night and on Sundays when the ringers normally gather in the church 45 minutes before the main morning service and for evensong.

The Church of England has a website devoted to churches throughout the country. Click on church to see details about services linked events and other local details for Holy Trinity Long Sutton.

 

 
The magnificent 15th century wooden pulpit (right) is said to be the oldest in England but whether this is true or not is debatable There are, however, less than one hundred pre-Reformation pulpits in the country and this is an outstanding example.

It is sixteen sided on an integral pedestal and ornately carved with twelve niches under nodding ogee canopies. The figures, dating from 1868, were restored in 1910. The whole was brightly (some may say garishly) repainted and gilded in Victorian times. The pulpit has been dated to 1455-58 by the initials carved on it – J.P. for John Petherton, Abbot of Athelney and W.S. for William Singleton, Vicar of Long Sutton – their respective periods of office only coinciding for 1455-58. It therefore pre-dates the present church. The old tester, still retaining hints of original colour, is now affixed to the wall under the tower arch. 

Click here to go to the Church of England 'a church near you' which has details about the ministry of Holy Trinity Long Sutton.