St. Mary's at Hay
The original 12th century church had suffered years of neglect by absentee vicars, until in 1828 it was described as 'dark comfortless and ill-contrived and quite inadequate in point of size.' So St. Mary's Church was almost entirely rebuilt by Humphrey Allen in 1833. Only the lower stages of the original 12th century West tower remain, an embattled top being added during the rebuilding. The work included a new nave with south and west galleries and a small chancel.
The only picture of the Norman Church before the rebuilding. This is from a lithograph by Henry Gastineau dated 1830.
Further improvements were made in 1866-67. The chancel arch was replaced by three Gothic arches and the chancel enlarged by the addition of an apse, organ chamber and vestry. A south porch was also erected. Amongst the new furnishings was an octagonal pulpit in Italianite style with medallions on five sides representing Our Lord and the Four Evangelists, installed in 1879. Stained glass picturing 'The Agony in the Garden', 'The Crucifixion', and 'The Entombment' was fitted in the three one-light windows of the apse.
Officials at St. Mary's, Hay
Church Wardens
Mr. Michael Twigge-Molecey, 1, Albert Terrace, Heol-y-Dwr, Hay 01497 820267
Professor Jeffery Babb, 18, Church Terrace, Hay 01497 822946
Secretary
Mrs. Elizabeth Rowe, 19, Swan Bank, Hay-on-Wye 01497 820086
Treasurer (St. Mary's, Hay and St. John's, Hay).
Mr. P. Lloyd 52,Gipsy Castle, Hay-on-Wye 01497 820136
Sacristan
Mr. Alan Rosethorne 10 De Breos Court, Hay-on-Wye