HomeHistoryServicesPicturesThis MonthEventsThe MessengerOur SponsorSermonsBaptisms, Weddings and Civil PartnershipsOur Link ParishHiring FacilitiesContacting UsGuestbookHow To Find UsLinks

The History of the church of St. Andrew

The only church for public worship in Havering until early in the 14th century was that belonging to the monastic church of St Andrew, Hornchurch. In 1323 permission was obtained to build a Chapel of Ease in Romford, a hamlet that was growing at a considerable pace and already a centre for the market trade of the district.

The new chapel was built alongside the ford crossing the River Rom in the district now called Oldchurch. This chapel was also dedicated to St Andrew and was to serve Romford for the next 80 years.

The River Rom was not however controlled as it is today, and as the river flooded over the adjacent meadows, the water seeped into the foundations of the Chapel, which soon became a ruin. In 1406, the first Church of St Edward was built near the thriving market place, and served as the church of Romford for the next 440 years.

Picture of Saint Andrew

The Nineteenth Century and the building of St. Andrew's

Following the induction of Archdeacon Grant as Vicar of Romford in 1838 St Andrew's school, now our own Parish centre was opened in 1843. He then decided a new church should be built to serve the western side of the growing town, the population being mainly employed in the Ind Coope brewery, the railway company and the market trade.

The building cost £4,500 and took 12 months to construct, after the laying of the foundation stone by Mr O. E Coope, a prominent and generous member of the building committee and associate of the local brewery that bore his family name.

The structure is substantially built of Kentish Rag and Bath Stone, the timber being generally of memle and oak.

Developments in the 21st Century

During 2004 the church underwent a substantial renovation. The Holy Child Room was created from the old Choir Vestry, toilet facilities installed and the church made compatible with the Disability Discrimination Act. A nave platform was also installed and a new nave altar crafted.

In 2005 work continued. New spotlighting was installed and the church was completely redecorated.

Back to top