Rev Clarence Porter's grave, which is in line with the altar

THE fishing heritage of Winterton is apparent as soon as you walk through the door of Holy Trinity and All Saints Church.

Nets from one of the last fishing boats that made a living from the beach hang from the walls and at the back of the church is Fisherman's Corner with a crucifix carved from ships' timbers.

The feature was the idea of Fr Clarence Porter, who was rector between 1925 and 1932.

Holy Trinity and All Saints Church, WInterton-on-Sea

Fisherman's Corner

Rev Porter's life was cut short when he suffered a heart attack after rescuing a choirboy from the sea and among the tributes to local lifeboatmen, who carried out daring rescues, is a memorial to him, on which flowers are placed. He is buried in the churchyard.

Joseph Hume of nearby Burnley Hall, a 19th Century MP who campaigned against anti-trade union laws and protested against flogging being used as a punishment in the army, is also remembered on the walls of the church along with another Hume whose generous legacy can be seen in the beautifully carved roof and rood screen.

One of the 14th and 15th Century church's big claims to fame is the impressive tower. At over 132 feet high it dominates the landscape and served as a lookout post during times of war. Some of the soldiers who spent cold and lonely nights up there left their marks etched into the lead roof.

It underwent a major restoration in 2014 and is now open to the public on selected Saturdays during the summer. You'll find these promoted on the Winterton on Sea Facebook page and the village Facebook groups. It offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside as well as out to sea. On a clear day those who make the climb can see as far as Happisburgh lighthouse to the north and Caister water tower in the south. (Please see our slideshow).

Inside Holy Trinity and All Saints Church

An aerial trip around the church

Aerial Video

A bird's eye view from the top of the tower

Views from Tower Top

Rev Clarence Porter's grave, which is in line with the altar

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Books and bric-a-brac can be bought from the porch

The church has hosted flower and Christmas tree festivals and is a regular venue for concerts by local performers. A pet service, Songs of Praise on the Green, Sea Sunday, harvest festival, All Souls service, Blue Christmas, carols round the Christmas tree and the Good Friday Walk of Prayer through the village are just some of the special events at which all are welcome.

It is part of the Flegg Parish Churches Benefice and the current vicar is Rev Deborah Walton. Find out more on A Church near You.