We studied the work of Anglo-Saxon and Norman Builders in Yorkshire

Adel Church was full on the 23rd October for Prof. Joyce Hill's History Talk. Margaret Steel played quietly on the organ until Joyce was introduced by our Rector, the Rev Dr Ian White. Joyce showed us slides of early churches, mainly in Yorkshire, and asked us to name them.

The first slide was of Bardsey Church, near Leeds, with the central section built in stone over a thousand years ago. Joyce pointed out the Anglo-Saxon windows in the square tower. We were wishing that we had a solid 11th c. tower at Adel instead of a Victorian add-on, needing repair! By the end of the talk we could spot these windows and we ignored the later extras like battlements and blue clocks!

Some examples were well known like Ledsham and Leathley; others included Kirk Hammerton, Hovingham and St Gregory's Minster, Kirkdale. All were clearly explained by Joyce.
We moved on to Aldborough, Glentworth, Brixworth, Broughton St Mary's, St Peter's at Barton on Humber, St Lawence at Bradford on Avon, Stow, the Crypt at St Mary's, Lastingham and my favourite, All Saints at Earls Barton, Northampton. Earls Barton has this amazingly decorated Saxon tower with the belfry in the top storey.

Looking at these churches, made us realise that (apart from the Faulty Tower!) we have a wonderful treasure here at Adel. The impact of Adel's richly-carved Norman porch and chancel arch impresses us today; it must have been overwhelming for early residents. Joyce didn't need to show a photograph of Adel. We were all sitting in the nave, gazing up at the magnificent chancel arch. ( I was thinking 'this arch is so much better than any of the examples that had been shown on screen'.)

There was time for questions in church and then an excellent supper and discussion in the Stables. The evening raised over £750 for Adel Bell-Tower Repair Fund! Many thanks go to Joyce Hill, Margaret Steel, the Social Committee and all who came along to support the event. 
Val Crompton