The reedy sound of the church organ followed us away from St Mary’s on this cloudy Sunday morning. We found the old track that led over a rise towards the Knoll with a fine view westward towards Arundel Castle, huge and solid against its trees.
Handsome beechwoods have grown on the downs since Jack Upperton met his comeuppance. This wretched man, a landless labourer well into his sixties, robbed the local postman, but made two stupid mistakes — he was recognised through his disguise, and he spent the proceeds conspicuously. The total take? One pound. For this paltry sum Upperton was hanged, his body tarred and displayed in chains on the down till it rotted away.
The George at Burpham
CHARLIE WARING
Among the beeches of Upper Wepham Wood two youngsters
