St Oswald's Church, Lassington

At the northern edge of Highnam is the turning to Lassington which ends at the farmyard and churchyard. Parked by a stable we were welcomed by a lengthy whinny, echoed by a neighbour in the field next door... The slim unbuttressed tower, Norman below and 14th century above, alone survives as the rest was demolished in 1975. It had nave and chancel only, with a south porch.

Buildings of England says it was all by Medland & Son, 1875; if so it would have been demolished in its centenary year. The nave and porch were neo Norman, but the chancel was Early English/Decorated and possibly a reconstruction of what was there before? A tall Norman chancel arch (as at nearby Churcham) divided the two, which looked convincing but was probably 19th century or it would be standing now (I hope!)

A reset doorway in the blocked tower arch was locked, but the rest was open!!

(Information provided by Phil Draper)