The manor of Pyrford is mentioned in Domesday (1086). But St Nicholas dates only from the late Norman period (circa 1150-60) and is one of several churches founded in the wake of the destructive (particularly in Surrey) civil wars between King Stephen and Matilda. Henry de Blois, younger brother of Stephen and bishop of Winchester was conscience-stricken for his part in the hostilities and sought to make good through munificence. His diocese was then by far the richest in the country.
Courtesy of Tony Paice
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