MARHOLM. CHURCH : ST MARY THE VIRGIN

Those visiting Marholm's St Mary The Virgin church will probably first be struck by the setting. The church is in immaculately kept grounds, with the trees on either side being particularly striking. I would think that this is one of my favourite settings for any church in my catchment area. Would one day really love to photograph this church in the snow. These day though, with snowfall being as rare as hen's teeth, this is an ambition that is liable to come to nothing!

  I can remember coming to this church once with my Mother and Father, both now passed over, and even at the age of ten being impressed by this church. Making a return trip some 30 years later and my feelings have not altered!!

Some extremely impressive tombs are set in to the ground, with several of these stating that the deceased was a one time rector.

  This church is also the final resting place of several members of the important Fitzwilliam family, with some very ornate tombs to be found here. Some nicely carved gravestones to be found here as well. In amongst the usual cherubs and angels I spotted a grave with the symbol of a wheatsheaf on it. Fairly unusual symbol this, at least in this part of the country. According to a list of gravestone symbols that I found on the internet, wheat on a gravestone represents a life lived to a ripe age.

  The view of this church remains unspoiled due in part to a sunken wall. These were designed to prevent animals from wandering in to the church grounds, whilst ensuring that the view of the church and grounds were uninterrupted. Quite rare in these parts with another to be found at Holy Trinity church, Orton Longueville.

Sadly, couldn't take any interior photos of this church, I will pop in again when visiting Helpston and Etton in the future to see if I can get any interior shots.