Volunteers from Newington History Group opened up the Grade I listed building for tours with the guarantee that everyone who visited would be shown something they hadn’t seen before - even if they knew the church well!
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Finding medieval graffiti. |
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History goes high-tech. |
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The cake stall under the stairs. |
Local historians entertained visitors with stories about the nobility and the ordinary people who’ve lived in Newington over the centuries. People such as John Blaxland, whose name appears on wine sold in major British supermarkets, Richard de Lucy, whose family came over with William the Conqueror and more recent residents, such as the soldiers from Newington who died in WWI and who are remembered in a unique Book of Remembrance at the church.
Many families also enjoyed going into the bell chamber - a dizzying trip up a 14th century narrow spiral staircase.
History Group Chair, Sue Flipping, says the weekend looks set to become an annual event.
“Many of us tend to travel away for a day out, forgetting that there’s plenty to find out about our home town. Heritage Open Days was a good opportunity to look back on Newington’s rich past and take time to explore the beautiful medieval church and especially the celebrated wall paintings.
“Plus we have some amazing bakers in the village who provided a feast of cakes for afternoon tea. It’s definitely worth doing again.”
Heritage Open Days is a national initiative where historic buildings and sites of interest open free of charge for four days in September.
If you would like more information about Newington History Group,
Email: NewingtonHistoryGroup@outlook.com or follow them on Twitter: @NewingtonHG
Sue Flipping - Newington History Group
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