St Bridget

It is widely believed that St. Brigid (St. Bridget) visited Wales and possibly the village.  She founded a religious community at Kildare in Ireland in the 5th century around the time of St. Patrick and is the patron saint of dairy maids, infants, midwives, blacksmiths, poets, nuns and students.  St. Bridget's Day is celebrated on 1st February. 

In 1845 an incised sepulchral slab of Sir John Botiler (Butler) of Dunraven circa 1285 was discovered in the churchyard of St. Bridget's.  It now rests in the chancel of the church near the altar.  The stone coffin to which the slab is thought to have originally belonged is positioned along the south wall of the sanctuary.  The figure itself is of a knight with a Latin inscription translated thus: "John le Botiler lies here, may God have mercy on his soul, Amen." 

Five bells were given by Caroline Countess of Dunraven in 1851, in memory of her parents.  The church clock, which is maintained by the Community Council, was given by parishioners and friends in memory of those who fell in the Great War and a dedication service was held on Sunday, 9th November, 1919.  A re-dedication service was held on Saturday, 18th November, 1939 following restoration work that included: new lead roof; new floors; re-casting of the five bells into six with new and up-to-date fittings; and renovation of the church clock; at a total cost of £800.  

Pick up a guide and have a DIY tour around this wonderful historic church. Explore the nave, chancel, sanctuary and see if you can find the incised sepulchral slab of Sir Johan le Botiler (Dunraven), the Butler Tomb, the Wyndham Monument, the Norman font, the Rood Screen and east window. Help yourself to a cold drink or pop down the drive and over the road to Gavin Henson’s pub The Fox.