St. Andrew’s Chale
Situated at the western end of the South Wight
Churches benefice, Chale has a population of
about 500 people. The church was dedicated by
the Bishop of Winchester in 1114. Patronage is
currently held by Keble College, Oxford. The
church seats about 100 people.
The fine Perpendicular tower was built in the 15th century and is said to be the earliest
square-roofed tower in the Isle of Wight. Most of the current structure also dates from
around 1450. There is a fine peal of six bells (one dating back to about 1400). The plate
includes a silver chalice and patten of 1698 and an early Sheffield Plate flagon of 1765.
There are five stained glass windows by Robert Kempe from about 1900. Recently a toilet
and kitchenette have been installed. There is a carpark.
Worship is predominantly from Common Worship with the Book of Common Prayer used
for Evensong. There is a regular congregation of 10 people. There is a small enthusiastic
choir, and there are organists available.