The rare Coat of Arms of King James II is believed to be the earliest of his reign in any church and one of very few in existence in an English church. He ascended to the throne on February 6th 1684 and these were put up on March 25th 1685.
The meaning and importance of Royal Arms changed after the Reformation during the reign of Henry VIII. They were specifically commissioned and placed in churches to remind the clergy and people that Parliament had confirmed the King as Supreme Head of the Church of England.
Although there was no legal requirement, churchwardens were encouraged to erect Royal Arms in the most prominent position in their churches, such as over the chancel arch. Which is were this Coat of Arms was originally sited.
Cleaning and conservation carried out by Elizabeth Halford Associates, Bristol for the sum £12,280.