Cross - clock tower and old goal
This is strictly in St Mary's street, but I am including it here as it is the most obvious feature at the centre of the village, and is at the start of Castle street.
The clock tower was built in 1862 replacing the earlier market cross and clock which was in very poor condition and stood where the current Post office now stands.
Adjoining the clock tower was the original Goal, which I suspect predated the clock tower.
1862 clock tower and original goal, photo late 1920s
The old goal was reportedly mostly used for sobering up village drunks. This old version was demolished and rebuilt as a bus shelter, around 1950 I believe.
Photo from 1950s showing (just) the 'new' bus shelter
The 'new' bus shelter was apparently made good use of by the local courting couples, which lead to another revamp to make it open fronted (spoil sports!)
Performing bear?
There is a story that the original gaol was once used to house a visiting performing bear over night, while its owner spent the night in the Rose and Crown. I have no idea if there is any truth in this. It could be a story that originated when the drunks were in residence - bear with a sore head, perhaps?!
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This page is still under review, please come back to see future additions.
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