The Beginning
There must have been a church in Chirton in Saxon times because the very name of Chirton, or Cherington, means 'Farm by the Church' in Anglo-Saxon. In 1086, at the time of the Doomsday Book, Cherington was recorded as being a village held by Durand, Sheriff of Gloucester. As a village there would have had to have been a church there, but in 1170, when Miles, later to be Earl of Hereford, was the overlord of Cherington, a new church was finally completed and consecrated. This was on Saint John the Baptist's day and the church was thereafter known as the church of Saint John the Baptist, and still stands today.

The nave and the mighty pillars support a wooden roof, which is thought to date from the original time of construction. The fine font, decorated with figures of the 12 Apostles, is Norman, as is the south entrance arch but the porch dates from the 15th century.

The Tower and the Bells
In 1709 it was recorded that the 3 existing bells were taken down and recast into five bells, a sixth bell was added 250 years later in 1959. These bells peal out most Sundays, as well on the joyful occasion of a wedding. Bell practice is led by John Cannings every Wednesday evening at 7.00 p.m.

The Stained Glass Windows
The stained glass is relatively new, being installed by the prolific studio of William Wailes and Son during 1850 to 1864.

A Tour of the Church
As you enter the porch, look up and see the exotic birds and beasts surrounding the arch and imagine what they symbolise. In front of you are the remaining Victorian pews , and on the left hand side there is a plaque to the first Commander of the Royal Flying Corps Major General Sir Frederick Sykes of Conock Manor. On the pillar on your right you can see where crosses have been scratched into the stone, long "Crusader" Crosses with round ends and above them square ended "Jerusalem" crosses indicating those who returned safely.

Do not miss the Norman Font encircled by the 12 apostles which remain remarkably unscathed after over 800 years. Beyond the font, the Bell tower includes a commemorative plaque recording the ringing of the six bells to commemorate the 800th Anniversary of the church.

The Organ. The pretty little organ on the north wall was built by Sweetland of Bath; date unknown, but possibly as early as during the renovations of 1860. During a recent concert, a gifted young organist was so enthralled by the instruments that after several encores he had to be asked to desist !

The Present Day
St John the Baptist Church is now part of the Redhorn Team, incorporating the parishes of Conock, Marden, Patney, Stert, Urchfont and Wilsford. There is a close association with the village Cof E Primary School, which holds plays and other events in the church.

Under the Redhorn Team , there are a wide range of services of worship in the church including family services and quiet vigils. Details of the services, the clergy, and what is going on can be found in the Redhorn Team News.