Rod Collins

Saint Helen’s Church nestles quietly in the village of Kirmington in Lincolnshire.
As part of the on-going quest to visit all the churches in Lincs I bring you yet another visitors report !

Kirmington, best known now for having a small airport nearby, is just down the road from Brocklesby Park and Great Limber and has at its heart a beautifully kept church and grounds. The history of the church goes way back, although it was restored in 1859 they, thankfully, were able to save the 12th or 13th century tower.

The spire is a little unusual for the county as it is copper and has a lovely weathered green hue to it.

It is a wooden construction, covered in copper and was added to the tower in 1838.
Inside the church still has the medieval arcades and has, according to Arthur Mee, some fine but grotesque and very unusual statues and carvings inside.
The carving of a grotesque bishop with big ears and hand raised in benediction can be seen to the left
Sadly when I visited the church was locked, as most are nowadays, so I was unable to see them or to verify that they are indeed still there - if anybody knows please do drop a comment below - thank you

Kirmington Church

The airport, now known as something ghastly like Humberside International Airport, was originally an RAF air base during World War II, the church in fact has a rather fine stained glass window to commemorate the fact.
Wellington and Lancaster bombers were squadroned there though it fell into disuse after the war ended.

Back in 1821 the village only had 89 houses and 489 inhabitants and I believe / suspect that Lord Yarborough is involved somewhere.
It certainly dates back at least to medieval times by name via mentions in various books but also as a place of settlement far longer.
Bronze Age finds are recorded as are pre-historic !

That’s more or less all I can tell you but if you’ve anything to add, interesting folklore about Kirmington or some historical facts or information - indeed anything - do please please a comment

Kirmington Church

See Also Churches in Lincolnshire

All the best
Rod