Three hatchments had, in the past, been introduced into the parish church in remembrance of members of the Leigh family, which had occupied the estate within which the church was situated. The Leigh family was subsequently replaced by the Collins family, which renovated the estate house and contributed significantly to the church. Following the death of Mrs Collins, her son sought to introduce a hatchment to her memory into the parish church. The Diocesan Advisory Committee and Parochial Church Council were in support of the proposal, as were the surviving members of the Leigh family, but there were objections from local residents. It was argued that there should only be hatchments for the Leigh family, as they were the lords of the manor, and also that hatchments were outdated and should no longer be introduced.
The chancellor set out a test for the introduction of hatchments based on the legality and removability of the hatchment, causing no harm to the fabric of the church. The Collins’ hatchment was legal, evidence from the College of Arms having shown that they were entitled to a coat of arms. A review of hatchments elsewhere showed that they were still being introduced, albeit rarely, and that the objectors’ historical evidence on this point was inaccurate. The limited number of faculties recently sought for hatchments tended to disprove the fear that everyone would want a hatchment. The objection based on the Leighs’ manorial rights was also unfounded as the lordship of the manor was titular only and the true test for the introduction of memorials was recognition of contribution to the church. In this case Mrs Collins had made generous contributions to both the house and the church. A faculty was granted on condition that the hatchment was approved by the College of Arms and installed within 12 months. [Catherine Shelley]
