A SPECIAL thanksgiving service will take place in a historic memorial chapel which marks its 125th anniversary this year.

The chapel at Rivington and Blackrod School was built in memory of Frederic Marshall, who died at the age of 17. It was dedicated on All Saints Day, November 1, 1982.

David Kaye of the Association of the Old Rivingtonians, said: "It's local, but it's charm is unseen by thousands of passers-by. It is a compelling story known to relatively few, a veritable jewel."

He added: "This year the chapel celebrates its Quasquicentennial, or 125th anniversary, a milestone which is to be marked by means of a special thanksgiving service organised by the Association of Old Rivingtonians, founded 1904."

Rivington Grammar School was founded in 1566 and merged with the neighbouring Elizabeth Grammar School at Blackrod in 1875. A new combined school opened in Rivington Lane, Horwich, in 1882.

A decade later, the stone Victorian facade was extended further by the building of a new memorial chapel funded by Frederic's parents Daniel and Ellen of Bolton's famed Magee, Marshall & Co brewing company.

Mr Kaye said: "Three years ago, augmenting the school’s Rivington Remembers project, marking the centenary of the start of the First World War, the Old Rivingtonians researched and published the comprehensive history of this lovely chapel for the first time.

"Struck by the many individual stories encompassed in the chapel’s fabric, furnishings and fixings, the publication was entitled Multum in Parvo — a great deal in a small space — and this lavishly illustrated booklet revealed hitherto unknown information, resulting from research into such aspects as the prolific Bolton-based architect, and the nationally-renowned suppliers of the beautiful stained glass windows, woodcarvings etc.

"Many intriguing facts were unearthed, providing links between the chapel and such diverse topics as Blackpool’s piers and the Russian Revolution, and the realisation of some priceless British heritage shared with the Palace of Westminster."

The thanksgiving service will be held in the chapel on Sunday at 2.30pm.

It has been created to evoke aspects of the chapel's fascinating story and, according to Mr Kaye, to underline the important role the chapel has played in the life of the school, and the association of its former alumni, over 125 years.

The service will be conducted by guest minister, Rev. Gareth M. Thomas, and will feature two musical interludes by current pupils at the school.

A commemorative Order of Service booklet has been compiled, designed to serve as a permanent reminder of a significant anniversary, from the perspective of both the school and the local community.

To find out more about the association visit www.rbhs.co.uk/pages/about-us/old-rivingtonians