Water spout

Today's the day .......................... to come across

Isn't it strange, that you can walk past something many times - and never notice that it's there?

I don't know why I noticed it today but there it was - a rather grand-looking water spout coming out of a lion's mouth.  It was by the side of the road that leads down to the old mills in Tongland, protected by its own little brick alcove.  Access to it was just from the road, so I can't think it belongs to the nearby house behind the wall.

I wonder who put it there - and how old it is?  Now that I'm looking at it, I wish I had pulled the round handle on the side.  Perhaps that would have pumped up some water?  

I'll have to go back - and give it try ..................... !