The Arts & Crafts Movement in Surrey group (26 members), arrived in Manchester on Monday for their annual trip. They spent this morning visiting Edgar Wood’s master piece in Middleton – Long St. Methodist Church and Schools.
This was followed by a walk around the conservation area looking at Wood’s houses and finally calling in at St. Leonards, with particular interest in the stained glass by Christopher Whall, but could not fail to be impressed by the rest of the Church.
The majority of the group did not know the name Edgar Wood, but after seeing and listening to Christine and Nick, they soon could put EW in context with Voysey, Mackintosh and the rest. With Nick’s knowledge base and his enthusiasm, he left them in no doubt about the importance EW’s work and influence. As Nick had to leave early, the group asked me to thank him and give him a round of applause.
Their itinerary for tomorrow includes visiting EW’s Church of the First Christian Scientists in Victoria Park, Manchester. We wish them well for the remainder of their visit.
