Last week I wrote about how I used my roll of “new” Ektachrome, tracing the route of the little river Winterborne. You can read that first post here. This post picks up the story as we arrive in the next village – Winterborne Kingston. At the time I arrived at the church, we were at the height of the jubilee celebrations and there was a flower show inside, showing blooms and materials from various commonwealth countries. Each window sill celebrated a different one. I made a photograph inside but not hugely successful.
The village has a busy village hall. I’ve called in many times, to visit a model railway club. There is also the Greyhound pub, which is known for good food, and also houses a community store.
From here the road follows closely the stream to Winterborne Whitchurch. In 1086 it was mentioned in the Doomsday Book as having 3 houses – today it’s grown, centred around St Mary’s Church. It has a chancel dating back to the 12th century, there I tried my luck at another interior photo, with a bit more luck I think. I wonder if the painting dates back to the 12th century too?
John Westley, grandfather of John and Charles Wesley, was appointed Vicar of St Mary’s by Oliver Cromwell’s Commission of Triers in 1658. His name is recorded in the “list of vicars” just inside the door, and he would have lived in the vicarage just opposite.
From here, Watcome lane, follows the little stream closely, to perhaps the best view of a church on our route – the church of St Nicholas at Winterborne Clenston. It only dates from 1840 and as such is by far the youngest too.
By 2013 the population of Winterborne Clenston had exploded to 40, I doubt it’s changed much in the last 9 years. There is a Manor that dates from late 15th, to early 16th century. It is not open to the public and is a private home, so I made a quick photo from the road. There is also a rare Tithe Barn, although sadly it seems to be falling into disrepair.
In the final part we’ll visit the final two villages, and complete the roll!
S.H.O.U.T. 