[New post] Fownhope, St Mary

Fownhope means (perhaps) "valley of the flag" and was a key Anglo-Saxon border site, with a large minster which became the present St Mary's. The dimensions of the nave, crossing and early chancel are impressive, with the latter extended later as the change to Pointed architecture shows. The present broach on the tower is also later, but may replace an earlier structure.

The star of the show is the 12th century tympanum. It's almost impossible to photograph as it is now set directly under the bright west window which kills the exposure, so go for better photos to crsbi.ac.uk/site/861. There is a cheerful debate about the subject matter. It looks at first sight like Mary with the Christ child on her knee - but some see a Trinity (with missing dove).

Other favourites were the flag (well, banner, but Fownhope has to have a flag) of the local branch of the Heart of Oak Friendly Society which still goes strong as a club with an annual walk, and artwork from a "Jerusalem" exhibition at the cathedral.