Walter decided to build the church after he survived being thrown from his horse and landing in a swamp.

[4] By the early 19th century, the town of Huddersfield was growing rapidly as a result of the industrial revolution and the parish church was too small to cope.

To keep costs down during construction, the bricks used were from the previous church on the site, which meant that repairs were needed overcome the deficient materials.

A baldachin and the east window, designed by Ninian Comper as part of a war memorial, were installed.

[9][10] On 17 June 1965 the church was the wedding place of Olympic athletes, swimmer Anita Lonsbrough and track cyclist Hugh Porter.

[11] On 17 February 2017, the church was the location of the funeral of Gorden Kaye, the Huddersfield-born television actor and star of 'Allo 'Allo!.