St Mary’s Church in Stockleigh English

St Mary’s Church is located in a village called Stockleigh English, west of Exeter in mid Devon.

The Church dates its origin to around 1300.

St Mary’s Church

It’s most famous vicar by far was one Rev George Dowty – a forefather of Sir George Dowty.

Between 1878 and 1883 the Rev George Dowty restored and beautified the Church – he was renowned for his energy and enthusiasm. In recognition of his work the stained glass window over the altar and the bells were erected in his memory.

Sir George Dowty visited the Church – with his son – and found his forefather’s prayer book in the vestry. The vicar gave it to him.

It is likely that Sir George Dowty was named after his illustrious forefather.

As you can see the Church is not locked – most unusual in these times.

We were invited to attend St Mary’s – in Stockleigh English near Crediton, Devon – Harvest Festival and some pictures are attached.

The village has about 50 residents and most attended the service, the church was comfortably full with hearty singing. with an excellent organist.

Huge interest in Sir George Dowty as a descendant of the Rev Dowty – the inscription is prominently displayed but given he passed away in 1889 there are no local memories of him.

A lady in the congregation joined Dowty Mining as a graduate trainee and never related the Rev Dowty to you Sir George!

The church dates from Norman times and needs work to be done

We are to set about obtaining a contribution from a charity that helps old churches.

134 years after the Rev Dowty passed away his work continues.

Report courtesy of Martin Robins

Sir George Dowty Memorial Committee – Chairman