Church of St Thomas Becket, Bridford
History and Architecture
The original Chapel was dedicated on the 8th November 1259. The oldest part is the Chancel, but it is uncertain whether or to what extent this includes parts of the original Chapel. It is constructed of rubblestone.
The nave, north aisle and tower are perpendicular in style and were added in the late 15th and early 16th century. They are built in granite ashlar. The Church's most striking feature is the early 16th century Rood Screen, believed to date from 1508. The Rood Loft is now missing (although the
stairs remain) but the surviving screen is richly carved and coloured with 8" high carved figures, although their faces were mutilated at the time of the civil war.
The four-bayed parclose screen has figures painted on the north face, probably from the 14th century.
Fragments of 15th century stained glass exist in the south windows of the Chancel and also the east window of the Chapel.
The organ is a "Father Willis" built in 1886 and removed from the Lady Chapel to the rear of the north aisle and rebuilt in 1956. It is regarded as a fine example and is used for organ recitals and concerts as well as for services. There are six bells in the belfry, one dating back to the 16th century. They are in working order and rung for Evensong and festivals.
The Church is Grade 1 listed. It is included in Pevsner's book and the official Dartmoor Guide.
Worship and Activities
At least one service is provided each Sunday except when there is a 5th Sunday, when there is a joint valley service. The regular sequence is 8.15 Holy Communion (BCP), 9.30 Sung Eucharist, Evensong at 6 pm and 9.30 Sung Eucharist. Typically there are about 16 at Sung Eucharist and 10-12 at Holy Communion and Evensong. In any year there are on average about 3 each of Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals.
In addition to those who attend regular services the Church is supported by members of the village in terms of help with cleaning, flowers and work on the Churchyard.
Churchyard
The churchyard has little immediately available space for further burials. It is also possible to inter ashes in the Garden of Remembrance.