Beacon Villages
Under Cosdon Beacon Dartmoor Devon UK
| Beacon Villages Journal | Church House Re-Opening |
The 30th November, St. Andrew's Day, was chosen for the official re-opening of Church House because that, the church's saint's day, would have been one of the two major 'Church Ales' days (the other being Whitsun) at the time of it's building in 1490. 'Church Ales' were, at that time, a jolly good way for the community to raise money to pay for the candles, cloths and statues etc. used in their church, while, at the same time, having a good time, feasting and socialising. We now do the same thing, for other good causes, with 'bring and buy', quiz nights, auctions, etc. Many locals, media people and heritage experts converged on South Tawton to look at the results of a lot of hard work and the expenditure of a third of a million pounds to conserve Church house for future generations. |
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Rosie prowled the corridors trying to get a snap of Michael. Others peered in the windows to get a sight of the brand new food preparation area. |
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The Wren Trust in the shape of locals Robin Wilson and Marylyn Tucker prepared to play while Annabelle Reynolds entertained us on her harp. |
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Two of the most important people in the restoration, historian Cynthia Gaskell Brown and Deborah Griffiths, DNPA Head of Archaeology |
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With everyone gathered in the lower hall, the Wren Trust started the proceedings with a rendering of 'John Barleycorn', with the audience joining in the chorus. Then John Christian, the committee chairman, introduced Deborah Griffiths who spoke of the uniqueness of Church House. |
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John then introduced Adrian Tinniswood of the Heritage Lottery Fund who gave a very impassioned speech about community conservation. Then David Youle thanked everyone involved with the project and the gathering retired upstairs to enjoy some refreshment. |
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