A special visit to the delightful church of St Mary in Kentisbeare, Devon
Those of you who have been following my work will know that I have enjoyed visiting churches in the neighbourhood close to home as each one has a charm and character with instant appeal.
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Our friends, Janet Dalwood and her son Mark, suggested to Sheila and I that we would enjoy this church because of its tranquil setting in the village centre and also the craftsmanship of the beautiful 15th century rood screen which stretches the width of the nave and south aisle.
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This church holds a special place in Janet’s heart because she was baptised in the 16th century font and some years later, married Roy just under the screen. In fact the four of us stood at the very spot where they both took their vows. (Fortunately I have picked up a predictive text error before this story went out. It thought I was saying that Janet was baptised in the 16th century!!).
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I will let the pictures tell the story. I hope you enjoy this selection.
Kentisbeare is located in a rural location between Honiton and Cullompton. The church is the central feature in the village with great parking and a community hall within the grounds.
Taking a walk down aisle through the archway of the screen, exposes other delights
Meanwhile, Janet shows us the fine old font.
The lid can be lifted off just like a silver dinner cloche at a dinner party.
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The pipes of the organ are located in the upper Anstice Gallery.
There are some wonderful carvings to the upper level gallery.
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There is a nice piece of poetry written to the front.
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Anstice late wife of Robert Wescombe here
built this loft in the church of Kentisbeare
For the convenient hearing of the Word
and praising of the true and living Lord
She also gave the profit of the same
Unto the poor in memory of her name.
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On reading that verse I couldn't help but add a Pam Ayres accent to the first two lines.
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There are two particularly impressive
stained glass windows to the south aisle.
Mark borrowed my camera to capture them.
Well done Mark. Hand held and you have
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caught all the fine details and colour
This is clearly a loved church. Just look at the rich red cushions and the way they are displayed
Whilst Mark was photographing the windows
I decided to photograph Matthew!
Thanks for looking at these pictures. I hope you may be tempted to visit too. The church welcomes visitors and is free to access.
