One of Merseyside's oldest churches that you have never heard of

One of Merseyside’s oldest churches has a long and fascinating history.

Nestled on a quiet country lane in the village of Sefton the St Helen Church strikes an imposing figure on the natural landscape. From the outside, the church is dominated by large windows and a tall spire that can be seen from miles across the lush green fields of Sefton.

The borough's oldest church has been a continuous place of Worship for more than 850 years. Consecrated in 1170, soon after a private chapel was built for the powerful Molyneux family.

READ MORE: The Liverpool shopping centre that would have queues out the door every Saturday

Little is known about the site's early history but it has been suggested that it may have been a Saxon burial ground. No part of the original chapel survived into the 21st century but while building work was being undertaken in the early 200s Norman floor tiles were found and have been put on display in the church's Lady Chapel.

Winter sunrise over St Helen church (Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)

During the reign of King, Henry VIII the church was given an extensive rebuild and St Helens has become renowned for its remarkably preserved Tudor woodwork. The most striking aspect of the church's interior is the complex of seven screens dating to the early to mid 16th century which have been described as St. Helen's "great glory".

In the churchyard, there are three structures that are Grade II listed. These are the base of a cross which is probably medieval, the churchyard wall, and a sundial from the 18th century.

Originally it was a private chapel for the Molyneux family and the family crest can still be seen there today. The Molyneux family became known as the Earls of Sefton in 1770, the second Earl of the family was the founder of the world-famous Grand National. In 1974 the crest was adopted as the coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Sefton and the name of the village was used at its title.

READ NEXT:

• All the quirks people from Liverpool don't realise are a bit weird to everyone else

• 19 things that ruined your day if you were a Merseyside teen in the Noughties

• Soldier, 18, who walked beside Queen's coffin at funeral found dead in barracks

• Mum missing for over a week found following 'extensive enquiries'

• Prison officer punched inmate so hard he broke his hand