Church artist 'mystery' is solved

Restoration of the reredos is now complete

The mystery of an artist who created a church's picture more than 100 years ago has been solved.

The initials NHW were revealed when the painting at St Ethelwold's Church in Shotton, Flintshire, was restored for the first time in 50 years.

Parishioners were asked to help identify who NHW was.

But it is now thought the artist was Nathaniel Hubert Westlake, considered by some to be a "giant" in his profession in the 19th Century.

The painting, of Christ holding the Book of Life, was given to the church in 1902 by architect John Douglas.

Known as a reredos (the decoration on the wall behind the altar), it was last restored 50 years ago, and the initials had been hidden until recently under decades of dust and dirt.

However, the vicar of St Ethelwold's, Reverend Steven Green, said one of the restorers had now solved the mystery.

He said: "It seems to fit exactly with his [Westlake's] style, and the era.

"It attracted a lot of community interest and support."

He added: "The painting is beautiful. There have been some well-meaning attempts at restoration over the years, but now it has been re-gilded and the whole thing is very vibrant."

Rev Green said anyone wishing to see the painting was welcome.