Ayot St Lawrence

The ruins of the old church of Ayot St Lawrence are right in the middle of the village. Almost opposite The Brocket Arms pub, a stones throw from Shaw's Corner, the house where George Brenard Shaw lived.

I have photographed these ruins before but I don't know if I've blipped them. The original church was probably built in the 12th century. Whilst there are conflicting theories about the reasons for it's descent into ruin, the concensus of opinion is that it was superseded with another parish church in 1779 and subsequently was ruined deliberately to make it look more romantic!

A lifesize nativity scene has been created in the nave below the tower, by the preservation society.

It was an interesting find to photograph on a grey, damp day.

Hope you all have a Happy New Year.