This cache replaces GC52PB8 which I had to archive as the hiding place turned out to be unsuitable.
Earnley Church is a grade II* listed church and together with its small graveyard is contained within retaining stone walls of an interesting boat shaped island of land. The nave is of 13th-century origin. A century later the chancel was added; an aumbry fitted with a carved door dates back to the 14th century. The first recorded rector was in office in 1365; parish registers survive from 1562, but there is no record of a dedication. It has always simply been “Earnley Church”.
The churchyard contains the grave of Major William Barnsley Allen VC DSO MC (8 June 1892 – 27 August 1933) a British Army medical officer who was decorated for gallantry four times during the First World War, including an award of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
In April 1943 the roof collapsed when a German bomb fell nearby, but undeterred, the congregation continued to hold services outside in the road.
The Jonah stained glass window is well worth a view, dedicated to the memory of Yvonne Rusbridge whose work is incorporated in the design.
To find the cache visit the first waypoint which is the entrance to the church. There is an inscription over the archway.
A = number of red letters
B = number of letters in second word
Now visit the second waypoint, the grave of Major William Barnsley Allen VC DSO MC
Gertrude died CD July 19EF
The cache is well camouflaged and hidden at N 50° (B)(D-C).(D-E-F)(D-E-F)(A) W 000° 50.(B)(E)(A)
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For full information on how you can expand the Church Micro series by sadexploration please read the Place your own Church Micro page before you contact him at churchmicro@gmail.com.
See also the Church Micro Statistics and Home pages for further information about the series.
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