Cathedral feature voted among top treasures

A feature inside Derby Cathedral has been voted as one of the top three cathedral treasures in the country.

The cathedral’s Bakewell Screen took third place in the national #CathedralTreasures campaign, organised by the Association of English Cathedrals.

Almost 4,500 people voted on their favourite cathedral treasure from the top 10 finalists in the campaign, which showcased 50 remarkable treasures and glories cared for and preserved by cathedrals in England and the Church in Wales.

The latest publication Deans’ Choice: Cathedral Treasures of England and Wales by Janet Gough, tells the story of the treasures, each one chosen by the Dean or senior clergy of the cathedral featured.

Janet said: “I am delighted to see the Bakewell Screen from Derby Cathedral, perhaps a less well-known cathedral – although full of treasures – voted one of the top three cathedral treasures in England and Wales.

“The 1720s Bakewell Screen is a masterpiece in painted and gilded wrought iron, traversing the full width of Derby Cathedral and dividing the chancel from the nave like any traditional rood screen.

“The screen’s transparency symbolises the light of reason beloved of the Age of Enlightenment and, made at the same time as Bakewell’s gates to Derby’s adjacent silk mill – today the Museum of Making – ushers in the Industrial Revolution.”

The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby, said: “We are delighted that the Bakewell Screen is so admired and loved by the public.

“It is a signature treasure in our beautiful cathedral, and I’d like to extend a big thank you to all who voted it as their favourite!”