Hassocks, Stocks, Lepers & Frescoes

We live in a little village in West Sussex, South England. In our village is a beautiful, old Church dating back to the 10th Century - it is always open and very well cared for and loved. Most striking are the hassocks, the kneelers, which the women of the Parish make for the pews. Each one is lovingly created using needle-point, each with its own significance or sentiment. There is no shortage! Here are just a few....... There are also the most incredible medieval frescoes, the colours still vibrant and incredibly well preserved. Below is a Leper's Squint . I had never seen one of these before. Lepers had to stand outside the Church away from the congregation, so to allow them a view of the Priest during Mass. The Parish created a viewing hole via the outside wall, then an interior hole - angled perfectly for the lepers to see through. Interesting isn't it? Outside is the original 16th Century Village Stock. I wonder who got put in those? Or what was thrown at them? In fact, one of the present villagers revealed to me that it was his ancestor that actually built them!!! I feel so privileged to have this on my doorstep and to live in a country where this is so readily available and accessable - and FREE TO ALL !!!!! Hope you enjoyed your trip to our little Church this Spring Sunday! TTFN xxxxx