St John's Sutton-at-Hone
The parish of St John's Sutton-at-Hone lies mainly on the west side of the river Darent, with some 4,250 residents primarily across Sutton-at-Hone and Hawley. The first church was erected pre-1066 and was rebuilt in the early 14th century. After a fire in the thatched roof in 1615, the building was restored. Much of the present day woodwork, including the pulpit, dates from that time. Charred timbers still remain in the old floor of the bell ringers' chamber. The stained glass windows were installed in 1862. The east window was damaged in the Second World War and restored using the original glass. The church has twelve hatchments (diamond shaped funeral panels) dating back to 1760, which are among the finest in this part of the country. Within the church there is an impressive monument to a 16th century resident and local benefactor, Sir Thomas Smythe. The monument was recently refurbished and the Skinners Company were most helpful in obtaining funding for this. The monument was rededicated on Advent Sunday 2014 by the Bishop of Riochester, the Right Reverend James Langstaff. |