St Cosmas and St Damian Churchyard in Challock, Kent

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Get directions Church Lane
Challock, Ashford Borough, Kent TN25 4BS England

Coordinates: 51.20653, 0.87817
Cemetery ID:

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The Church of St Cosmas and St Damian stands a mile from the present village of Challock, down a narrow and winding country lane, which turns to a farm track beyond the church. The dedication to Saints Cosmas and Damien is an unusual one; they were from 4th century Syria, and were noted for their care and healing of animals. Close to the site of a Saxon church, the present building dates from at least the 12th century; it is known to have been rebuilt in the 13th century. Ancient sarsen stones are incorporated into the walls. Part of the interior was damaged by bombs in WW2, and after renewal the first of a remarkable series of murals was begun. In the Lady Chapel, Rosemary Aldridge and Doreen Lister depicted the lives of the patron saints, painted in 1953. Soon after, John Ward RA and Gordon Davies decorated the chancel with scenes of the Annunciation and Nativity, within local landscapes. In 1999 John Ward painted the Millennium Mural on the north wall, showing Christ riding into Challock; there are many local scenes and local people included. In early spring the churchyard, surrounded by trees and with views over farm land, with just one house in sight, is carpeted with snowdrops; later in the year the bluebells attract walkers and other sightseers.
(Text by Sheilia W.)