The first church on the itinerary, St George’s Kelmscott (c11th century) is the burial ground of William Morris, famous artist, designer and founder member of the Society for the Protection of Ancient buildings. (We have much to thank him for). A short ride through the village and on to St Matthew’s Church, Langford, built in 1080 and enlarged over the centuries. A medieval stone carving of the Crucifixion above the entrance porch has the rare distinction of the arms of Christ being upside down to facilitate its placement.

From Langford we travelled to a comparatively modern church, St Peter’s, Filkins built in 1857 on the request of the villagers who previously had to walk to Broughton Poggs for worship. John Betjeman visited for the anniversary celebrations in 1957. Of note is the starry sky scene painted on the domed ceiling of the chancel.

Our next port of callKencot, St. George’s is thought to be built on Saxon foundations. Etched in the stonework of the main doorway it is possible to see Crusader crosses. A carving above the door depicts the star sign Sagittarius; the Normans sometimes used signs of the Zodiac as Christian symbols.

The final visit was to St Peter and St Paul, Broadwell. A fine interior and an exceptionally tall spire, but unfortunately no information due to a light fingered visitor that stole the guidebook.

The group agreed this was an excellent, well-devised and interesting itinerary, thanks to Helen Dixon. Her time and expertise was well rewarded with the pleasure of the visit. Once again many thanks to her from the group.

LEO & NOBBY HILLIER