Old postcards give a wonderful glimpse into the past - and in the case of churches it's fascinating to compare how they looked 80, 90 or 100 years ago with today.

The postcard below shows the classic view of the tower and west door.  Very little has changed.  Unfortunately the card wasn't posted, so I have no date for it.

However, looking at this one of the inside, also sadly undated, we see the original altar and reredos from Seddon's restoration.  Also notice the wonderful star-like fitting - was it a chandelier or a light fitting?  Do let me know if you know.

Below are some telling documents of the restoration plans of the architects Seddon and Carter in the 1890s, taken from the journal Building News. 

The first shows Seddon and Carter's plan for the exterior appearance of St. Mary's, looking at the West door.  It is dated 20 January 1893.

There follows Seddon and Carter's desired interior view, from the same document.  Note the caption "The Norman nave as originally intended to be built" - i.e. restoring the ceiling to its former stone vaulted state.

The next two images from Building News date from 23 March 1894.  They show the clear intention of the architect to restore the missing side aisles.  If only...