Bradford Cathedral marks 50 years of expansion

The Making of the Cathedral is the title of a lecture by Dr Alistair Fair which is taking place at 5pm on Sunday, October 27.

It tells the story of Ilkley-born architect and designer Edward Muff – who later became Sir Edward Maufe – who was appointed to oversee the Bradford Cathedral expansion and is also known as the architect of Guildford Cathedral.

Although Bradford Cathedral was created in 1919 with the formation of the Diocese of Bradford, it was not until after the Second World War that plans to extend the building began taking shape.

Back in 1919 it was decided that the Parish Church of St Peter needed to be bigger and grander as was fitting for its new cathedral status.

“But it wasn’t until 1940 that Sir Edward Maufe was appointed and began work, which was delayed due to the Second World War and a lack of funds,” said a cathedral spokesman.

“The foundation stone of the first extension, the Song Room, was laid in May 1953 and the East End completed some ten years later in October 1963.”

Sir Edward was born plain Edward Muff in Sunny Bank, Ilkley in 1882, the youngest son of Henry and Maude Muff. Henry was a linen draper with Brown, Muff & Co and his mother was a niece of Sir Titus Salt.

Edward was educated at Wharfedale School in Ilkley and later at Bradford School. He died in 1974 on his 91st birthday.

An expert on Sir Edward Maufe, Dr Fair will discuss the genesis of the building that became the cathedral that exists today.

The talk at the cathedral will include illustrations of earlier plans which reveal what might have been.

Entry is free but donations are appreciated. For more details contact 01274 777720.