[1] Wildsworth is not mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book, although an earlier settlement is indicated by finds of 2nd- to 4th-century Roman pottery and building material.

[5] Previously observed cropmarks in the area show evidence of channels and banks associated with post-medieval warping – controlled flooding of land to increase fertility.

A chapel of ease to St John, built in 1838, was described as of white brick in Norman style, comprising a chancel and nave, and polygonal tower with one bell.

It was of yellow brick and ashlar construction, and comprised a chancel, nave, vestry with boiler house – added in 1908 – west doorway, and a polygonal embattled tower surmounted by a short spire.

The nave contained pilasters topped by pinnacles which divided the walls into three bays, and the chancel a 1916 stained glass east window by Charles Eamer Kempe.