KNUTSFORD Historical Society’s last meeting of the season took place on Thursday, April 16. Following the statuary AGM, David Young spoke on Anglo Saxon Churches. Little remains of the originals, probably due to perishable wood being their main source of building material. Post-Viking in the 10th and 11th century stone was used.
Another indication of Anglo Saxon heritage lies in the foundations which remain as later churches were built over them.
One example of well preserved foundations is St. Wystan’s in Repton which retains its Anglo Saxon crypt and originally held the remains of St. Wystan who died in 849.
It still holds two kings of Mercia, interred in the 8th century. The present incumbent of St. Wystan is the Reverend Martin Flowerdew, brother to the well known gardener Bob Flowerdew of Gardeners' World. Repton boasts a public school, one of the more recent luminaries being Jeremy Clarkson. St Wystan has a tenuous connection with Knutsford, in the 8th century King Cnut removed the Saints remains to Evesham Abbey, they have never been returned.
When you enter Repton there is a sign welcoming you to the Ancient Capital of Mercia. In just over an hour down the A50 it is a much easier capital to reach than London.
Our next meeting will be Thursday September 17 same time, same venue, same subscription and an interesting menu of talks.
Visitors £2 and all are very welcome.
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