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Ealing exhibition marks life of Spencer Perceval

May 14 2012 By Michael Russell

Artist's impression of assassination of Prime Minister Spencer Perceval in 1812.

BRITAIN’S only assassinated yet largely forgotten prime minister is being celebrated with an exhibition and church service to mark the 200th anniversary of his death.

The death mask of Spencer Perceval is among the memorabilia held at All Saints Church, in Elm Grove Road, Ealing Common, which was built in his memory on the site of his former home.

He was shot in the House of Commons lobby in May 1812 by John Bellingham, who had a grievance against the government.

Original newspapers from the time of the shooting were on show and a service was held at the weekend reflecting on Mr Perceval’s life.

Associate vicar Justin Dodd said: “He’s known as Britain’s forgotten prime minister. He had a very interesting term of service, dealing with the Napoleonic Wars, the Luddite rebellion, the madness of King George III – he had a lot on his plate.

“He was a very principled man and committed to his faith. He was an important resident of Ealing and made a significant contribution to the national life of Great Britain.”

Visit www.allsaintsealing.org.uk to find out more.

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