Easter | Stoke Sunday History

Easter in Stoke St Gregory

Eighty years ago, the Second World War was heading for the close. The American president, Franklin D Roosevelt had died, days before he would have chaired the formal beginning of the United Nations. In the States Harry Truman dedicated the VE Day celebrations to his memory. In Stoke tribute was made by the Church Ringers, by a muffled peal of bells at Easter.

The following also appeared in the Taunton Courier:

“STOKE ST GREGORY EASTER VESTRY

At the Easter Vestry meeting Mr. Reg. Garland was elected people's warden and Mr. Tottle. Vicar's warden. The Church Council were re-elected, with the addition of Mr. Wallbutton. Mrs. Sharp and Mr. Peare. Mr. Smith (secretary and treasurer) gave a satisfactory account ol the year's work and financial state the church.

V. DAY ARRANGEMENTS

At a meeting of the Victory Fund Committee Mr. G. Musgrave agreed to act as secretary to the Committee, assisted Miss A. Hearle.. Mr. Frank Chedzoy, who had started as secretary, had found it necessary to resign, owing to pressure of duties. He was thanked for getting the work started. It was decided to hold a united service of thanksgiving in the Parish Church on V-Day. The next evening there will be social in the Williams Memorial Hall.”

More on VE Day next month, but Easter, was not only the major Christian festival of the year but also the time when officers of the village were chosen.

Back in Tudor times, there were many roles other than churchwardens that had to be assigned.

Constables, appointed by the manorial court or Justices of the Peace, were responsible for law enforcement.

Ale Tasters were selected by the manorial court to ensure the quality of ale sold in the village.

Surveyors of Highways were appointed by the vestry to oversee road maintenance.

Overseers of the Poor were chosen by the vestry to manage relief efforts for the poor.

Bailiffs were appointed by the lord of the manor to collect rents and taxes.

Haywards were selected by the manorial court to protect common land and crops.

Reeves were appointed by the lord of the manor to oversee agricultural work.

I wonder which of our current residents might be doing those jobs today. Any suggestions?

This of course all changed when ‘democracy’ reared its head and the 1894 Local Government Act took away most of these local responsibilities and gave them to the newly elected District Councils, leaving Stoke St Gregory Parish Council with footpaths, burial grounds and allotments.

But Easter was also a time for fun. Until recent times Easter Monday was by far the busiest day of the year in the Royal Oak, with all the family present for a local skittles tournament. And football was always on the agenda at Easter. Here’s a new addition to our sporting collection.

Back Row: Donald Cage, John Worgan, Philip Brewer (Bunter), Merv Musgrove

Middle Row: Roger Derham, Dave Worgan, Eric Hembrow

Front Row: Pete Nicholas, John Bailey, Terry (Sam) Storey, Keith Hembrow

Does anyone have a clearer copy - this is the best AI will do?