St Swithun
Pyworthy, Devon
A beautiful church with clerestory window and lovely stained glass in light and bright building; our beautiful churchyard is a haven for wild life.
Holsworthy church was established around 1130 although the earliest documentation available is dated 1268. Later additions were made in 1366. However, long before a church building stood on the site, the annual St Peter's Fair took place in what is now the churchyard. The Fair continues today with a Fair Maid (the Pretty Maid) appearing through the doors of the clock tower on the stroke of midday to represent the town at its annual festivities. Her identity is kept a closely guarded secret each year.
At the back of the north aisle a stained glass window made by John Bell of London in 1876 depicts the life of Christ through eight scenes. It is unusual in including the devil complete with horns, clawed feet and lack of heart.
The tower contains a set of eight bells, widely regarded for their peal. A newly restored carillon plays several tunes including 'Holsworthy Bells', a tune written by Dr SS Wesley specifically for the carillon.