THE ladies of Sandford Spirts WI enjoyed a delightful summer outing to Dowrich House and Gardens for our August meeting, at the kind invitation of owner Mr Michael Lee.

We were blessed with lovely summer weather, so were able to fully enjoy the lovely views of the local countryside from the gardens.

Michael met us at the ancient entrance steps and gate, introducing his talk about the history of the property by showing us the separate “jail” cells for use by men and women prior to being sent to the assizes at Exeter in times past.

Our members were pleased to note that the women’s cell had a fireplace, as it must have been very cold and cheerless being so exposed to the elements in the gatehouse.

Michael continued his talk by telling us about the legend of the ghostly rider, a previous owner of Dowrich House. We were then invited into the historic property and reception room adorned with coats of arms, these being associated with families who were connected by marriage with previous owners of Dowrich.

After a tour of the lovely gardens, we returned to the house and were fortunate to hold our business meeting in the Drawing Room. Michael was formally thanked for his invitation for us to visit and for his interesting talk and anecdotes.

Members were invited to sign up for a Red Cross First Aid course which has been arranged for a date in October at Sandford Parish Hall and for the DFWI Autumn Council Meeting in Barnstaple, also in October.

We were pleased to welcome a new member and a visitor from Australia who thought herself very lucky to visit such an historical local house and farm.

Business concluded, we adjourned to the kitchen to make our choices from the delicious food provided by our members for afternoon tea. Some of us forsaking the traditional cup of tea for a lovely glass of Pimms which we were able to enjoy outside in the sunshine admiring the splendid views before saying our farewells.

Our next meeting will be held at the Sandford Congregational Church Hall on Tuesday, September 13 at 7.30pm where we will be welcoming Janet Williams a milliner, accompanied we hope, by lots of lovely hats!

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Carole Webb