Why the Third Herd? Because in WW2 the US 3rd Armoured Division Spearhead HQ was billeted in Redlynch Park opposite.
The Third Herd served with distinction in France and Germany and in later years in the Gulf War. While researching The Herds history I came across a couple of nice little anecdotes about their time at Redlynch. The first involves the Duke of Gloucester who was King George VI brother.
During his visit at lunch he was asked what he would like to drink 'Beer' was the reply. There was apparently plenty of wine in the cellar the key of which was held by the resident Butler of the owner the Dowager Lady Suffolk. An MP was dispatched to the Blue Ball in Bruton, but then (As unfortunately now permanently) it was closed. The landlord was woken up and beer obtained for the Royal guest.
The second was a speech given to 3AD troops by Montgomery who used the cricketing term 'Hitting the Germans for six' which as you can imagine the meaning was completely lost on our Allies.
There is a plaque on the wall of Redlynch Park Entrance attributed to The Third Herd a photo of which I have included in the Gallery to save you crossing the road.
Acknowledgement for the Anecdotes to Haynes W Duggan