by Alan Quick

A FASCINATING story of a Sandford farmer’s life and the house that has its own prison and ghost will be launched at a public event at Dowrich, Sandford, tomorrow, Saturday, December 9.

Farmer and former Devon County Councillor Michael Lee, invites everyone to the book launch at his home from 2pm to 5pm.

Michael’s book, “Dowrich - The Story of an old Devon House and its Farm”, tells the story of his life in farming and his lifelong connection with the extraordinary house called Dowrich.

Lying deep in the heart of rural Devon, Dowrich was the home of the Dowrich family from 1200-1717.

The building itself has undergone many changes and contains fascinating details of its past, including the castellated gatehouse (known as the “prison”), which provides visitors with an intriguing prospect as they approach.

It was here that Michael Lee grew up, his family has been farming land around Dowrich since the 1920s and still do, building, a family farmhouse also built nearby.

It was always Michael’s dream to own the house itself and, as he took over the farm, he extended the holding and improved the land and in 1981 achieved his aim of purchasing Dowrich House.?Always keen for others to share his own fascination for his home, Michael now opens the house for numerous charitable and community events throughout the year.

While involved in local and national politics, advising various governments on aspects of agriculture, Michael has always been keen to record the history of Dowrich and the part his family have played in its long history.

Now, having handed over the farming responsibilities to his family, Michael has at last been able to set down on paper his life story and that of the house he loves, illustrating the book with more than 250 photographs.

“Dowrich - The Story of an old Devon House and its Farm” is published as an A4 hardback edition comprising 128 pages.

After the launch the book will be available at Crediton Community Bookshop, Sandford Community Stores or directly from Michael Lee on 01363 772671 or email: [email protected] .