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“Built in 1793 and consecrated three years later, St Francis church was at one time the smallest parish church in the diocese of Newcastle. The stained glass window, installed in the south wall in 1903 commemorates those of the community who died during the period of construction of the nearby Catcleugh Reservoir and was paid for by their fellow workers. It is reputedly the only such window to include the depiction of a narrow gauge railway.”

St. Francis reopened in June 2021 having had the pews, floor, pulpit, wainscotting removed, to be treated for both wet and dry rot.  A new floor was laid and everything replaced.  The Minton tiles depicting the Agnus Dei and other imagery are another interesting item in the Church.

The Church is open 24 hours for prayer and contemplation, we have Holy Communion at 3pm on the 4th Sunday of each month. St. Francis is directly on the Pennine Way and walkers are welcome to rest at the Church, bottled water is provided.

"The parish of Horsley with Byrness is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer(s), PSOs. The Diocese of Newcastle’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Services."