St Wilfrid’s Church Star ‘Switch-on’

Our Patch

St. Wilfrid’s Church relit a piece of local history as the iconic St. Wilfrid’s Star returned after 20 years!

Past event

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Reimagined by Our Patch local artists, Nat Joseph and Tasha Brown and shaped by community memories, the new star paid tribute to the beloved 1960’s original by local resident, Maurice Chalcraft.

On Sunday 14 December 2025, St. Wilfrid’s Church relit a piece of local history as the iconic St. Wilfrid’s Star returned after 20 years!

The ‘Star Switch On’ event also premiered a new heritage and animated film that brought to life these stories, memories and community voices behind the original star. This led into the dramatic switch-on of the newly reimagined star, followed by a carols by candlelight and brass band service. It was an evocative celebration of craftsmanship, local history and the collective spirit that defines St. Wilfrid’s.

This was a free, drop-in event.

Location

St. Wilfrid’s Church
St Wilfrid’s Rd
Bradford
BD7 2LU

Our Patch

This project was funded by Our Patch.

Our Patch was a year-long arts programme across Bradford in 2025, inviting community groups and residents to design and take part in free workshops, activities and events in their local area. Led by local ‘Our Patch Producers’ alongside artists and makers, the project brought people together through creative experiences ranging from painting and poetry to dancing, cooking and gardening. Taking place in community halls, libraries, faith spaces and social hubs across Bradford East, Bradford South, Bradford West, Keighley & Ilkley and Shipley, Our Patch celebrated local culture while helping people learn skills, build confidence and make new connections. This was Our Patch.

Our Patch is funded by The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund. We extend our thanks to all players of the National Lottery.

Credits

Cover image by Ry Gibson.

This is a part of Our Patch.