11 Facts About Margaret Ward

Margaret Ward was canonised in 1970, as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales.

Margaret Ward was living in London in the service of a lady of the "first rank" when she learned of the severe maltreatment of Richard Watson, a priest confined at Bridewell Prison.

Margaret Ward was thoroughly searched before and after every visit, but gradually the authorities became less cautious, and she managed to smuggle a rope into the prison.

Margaret Ward escaped, but left the rope hanging from the window.

The boatman whom Ward had engaged to convey him down the river then refused to carry out the bargain.

Margaret Ward provided a boat and exchanged clothes with the priest.

Watson escaped, but Roche was captured in his place, and Margaret Ward, having been Watson's only visitor, was arrested.

Margaret Ward was kept in irons for eight days, was hung up by the hands, and scourged, but absolutely refused to disclose the priest's whereabouts.

Margaret Ward was offered a pardon if she would attend a Protestant service but refused.

Margaret Ward was beatified in 1929 and canonised by Pope Paul VI on 25 October 1970, as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales.

Margaret Ward is depicted in panels in St Joseph's, Sale and St Alban's, Wallasey.