Quintessentially British!

Sturminster Newton known to locals as Sturnewton or Stur, is a town in the Blackmore Vale area of Dorset. The town is famous as the home of poet and author William Barnes, and, for part of his life, Thomas Hardy. One of the largest cattle markets in England used to be held here but was closed in 1998 and now in its place stands a housing estate and a 300-seat community arts centre called The Exchange. The town is situated at a historic fording point on the River Stour. The ford was replaced in the 16th century with a six-arch stone bridge, and a quarter kilometre embankment crossing the flood plain. The bridge was widened from 12 to 18ft in 1820. A 19th century plaque affixed to the bridge states that anyone damaging the bridge would have been transported to Australia as a felon. On the south bank of the river is the watermill which was restored in 1980 and is now a museum. Newton means a new farm or estate, and Sturminster a church (minster) on the Stour. The town centre is built in a mixture of styles, including 17th and 18th century thatched cottages, Georgian stone buildings, and 19th century brick buildings. Set back from the main road is the market square and parish church, which was rebuilt in 1486 by the abbots of oGlastonbury. From 1863 the Somerset and Dorset Railway ran through the town until 1966 when it was dismantled as part of the Beeching Axe. As school holidays start tomorrow won't be passing this sign for two weeks.....just keeping everything crossed for a little sunshine!