Church of St Helen

The church dates from the 12th century with elements from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. The church was restored between 1881 and 1882 by Frederick Josias Robinson of Derby. The plastered ceiling was taken down. The stone walls and columns were stripped of their plaster. The chancel arch was cut through, and the square pews were replaced with open pitch pine seating. Minton tiles were laid throughout and central heating installed. A new pulpit was provided by C.E. Newton of Mickleover Manor. It was made by Walker and Slater of Derby with alabaster slabs found in the floor of the church, with columns and medallions of red royal marble. The contractor for the general work was Robert Young…