Tweetree-2

Our second was a slightly older tree in the church yard of Stoke Gabriel, a yew tree said to be around 1,000 years old. In keeping with tradition I walked backwards around it seven times, making a wish on completion. Surprisingly tiring as the ground was sloping slightly. The tradition may well have been connected with the nearby clump of shamrock.

The first patron of the church was a chap called Pomeroy, another of the Conqueror's companions, the second was called Churchward, whose family controlled the nearby tide mill, now the site of the café, while the third was the chap called Pontin, of holiday camp fame. Things not looking good: start off OK with a knight in armour, then someone in trade, then down to entertainment.

The church had an unusual tapered tower, some unusual stone carving, a rather fancy painted wood pulpit and a rood screen with old paintings of saints and suchlike. There was also a small organ open to view, which was handy given the interest in such things sparked by going to hear the one at the Festival Hall.