Church of St Andrew, Stogursey

The Church of St Andrew stands in the village of Stogursey, Somerset, on ground once held by William de Falaise when the Domesday Book was written. Built early in the 12th century as part of a Benedictine priory, it became a cell of Lonlay-l’Abbaye in Normandy. The nave was widened about 1180 and again in 1824 by Richard Carver, while the chancel was rebuilt between 1863 and 1865 by John Norton. Inside are two Norman fonts and, in the south arch, a sanctuary ring from 1243. This iron ring let fugitives claim forty days’ refuge before admitting guilt or standing trial. John de Rechich, a murderer, once used it and then fled, leaving the priory liable for his fine. The tower still holds six bells, the oldest cast in 1611. Visitors find a quiet parish church with wide aisles and clear glass. The tower rises above the nave, and the rebuilt chancel shows 19th-century detail. The Quantock Coast benefice keeps the building open to local worship and occasional visitors.