Canon Rev John Sharp served as vicar of St Peter’s for 65 years from 1834. His energy saw the creation of St Peter’s School, St Leonards Hospital (almshouses), the original mission at Horbury Bridge, St John’s church at Horbury Bridge and the church of St Mary The Virgin at Horbury Junction The House of Mercy, now St Peter’s Convent, was also his initiative alongside his cousin, Henrietta Farrer.