Friday, 1 October 2021

Come and join me...

 ...at the Craft Fair in the beautiful village of Kirk Smeaton (WF8 3LB) on October 16th...

This super event will run from 11.00am until 3.00pm and is being held in Saint Peter's church.  It may be a small building but it dates from the 12th century and has an interesting history.  Have a look at the chancel arch which is thought to have been constructed around 1160.  There is also a large stone font that is thought to be a little earlier.
In 1862 the original building was enlarged and restored and, as a result of over-work on the restoration, some of the detail from the early features has been lost, unfortunately.  The full history of the building is also very patchy, so it is quite difficult to be precise about any of the attributes visible in this stunning little piece of architecture.
However, what is not in dispute, is the village listing in the Domesday Book - Domesday being the middle English spelling of our modern-day title, Doomsday.  Dating from 1086, this incredible piece of ancient documentation can now be accessed online.  Check it out here.  The book records who was owner of the land, both before William's invasion and afterwards, and the church is briefly mentioned.
One other little bit of information that might interest you is that the current name of the village orignates from Smedetone which is a composite of two words from Old English.  The first meaning 'smith' and the second meaning 'estate' or 'farm'.  The Kirk - derived from the old Norse word for church - was added later and is first documented in the 14th century.
And if the history doesn't encourage you visit on October 16th, then maybe the details of the fair will.
There will be all sorts of stalls. Come and explore the stunning bags and scarves that have been created, or take a look at the table with various knitted goods.  Perhaps you are looking for some early Christmas presents or decorations for the house, in which case check out the stall selling candles.  The local florist will also be there with arrangements and wreaths and you can  stock up on jams and chutneys, too.
I will also be there with my books and perhaps something to read might be the answer to that nagging question about what to get aunty so-and-so for Christmas this year.
In addition there will be refreshments available throughout the day and you can try your luck in the raffle, too.
I can guarantee you a lovely day out in stunning, historic surroundings.  So please drop by and say hello.  Entry to the fair is absolutely free.

October 16th, St Peter's Church, Main Street, Kirk Smeaton, WF8 3LB
Entry to the Fair is FREE

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