All Saints' Church, Newtown

In contrast to the parish church, the daughter church, dedicated on All Saints Day, November 1st, stands in the populous built- up heart of the parish known as Penygloddfa.  Opened in 1890 following consecration by Bishop A. G. Edwards, it was built at the sole expense of Sir Pryce­Jones of nearby Dolerw Hall.

The church comprises a chancel, nave and south aisle, a porch of oak timber and at the south east angle of chancel stands a square tower, above this an octagonal second storey surmounted by a spire rising to 75 feet.  The total cost was nearly £4,000.  The walls are of Llanymynech stone with Grinshill dressing and a slated roof of green Bangor slates.  The site was given by Mrs. Lovell of Llanerchyddol, daughter of David Pugh, M.P.

The design was by Sir Aston Webb, the eminent Victorian architect who was responsible for many private and public commissions which included Birmingham Law Courts, the Victoria and Albert Museum, Admiralty Arch and many more.

Following the closure and disposal of the old parish school in 1978, the need was felt for a replacement building which the congregation could use for social functions and where Sunday School activities could be held.  Consequently in 1981 a large room with kitchen and toilet was built, blending in with the main structure, at the north west angle of the nave on a plot of open ground already owned by the church.  The new extension together with the main body of the church were decorated by members of the congregation.

Architect : Mr. Rhys Williams.  Builder : Mr. Glyn Owen and Son.

(extracted from A brief history of the Buildings of the Church in the Parishes of Newtown & Llanlwlchaiarn by H.N. Oliver)

In 2004 the heating was replaced, thus providing a warm, comfortable meeting place.  Plans are in hand for the chairs to be replaced in 2010.

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