His uncle Robert was Abbott at Wellow Abbey during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII. It was here that John received his early education.  In 1586 St James Church became the parish church of Grimsby after John Whitgift united the parishes of St Mary’s and St James.

Educated in London and Cambridge University, he took up holy orders in 1560. Promotion was rapid and he was first a chaplain at Ely, before making an impression on the Queen and becoming the royal chaplain.

He was able and devoted, controversial, and extravagant, but remained temperate and kindly though a firm ruler of the Church.

He had a dislike of Puritans and helped pass many acts prohibiting puritanical publications. Whitgift also helped shape the character of the Church of England.

He became Archbishop of Canterbury to Queen Elizabeth I in 1583 and was a favourite of hers during his 20 year period. 

Dubbed ‘her little black husband’, he was there when Elizabeth I died in 1603 and crowned James I. A scene depicted in the stained glass at Grimsby Minster.

Whitgift died in 1604 and is buried in Croydon Minster. He left a legacy in the charitable foundation, The Whitgift Foundation in Croydon, which helps the elderly and three independent schools.