Stories through Time
The Witch of Elmley Lovett:
Ah, gather close, for the tale of Mother Willis is one that has resonated through the Worcestershire countryside for ages.
Mother Willis was no ordinary woman. She resided in the charming village of Elmley Lovett, surrounded by rolling hills and ancient oak trees. Her cottage, perched at the edge of the forest, had a sagging thatched roof burdened with secrets.
Her Abilities: Mother Willis was renowned for her exceptional knowledge of herbs and potions, curing ailments that even the village doctor couldn't. But her talents extended far beyond medicine. Rumors swirled around the market square—she could converse with animals, forecast the weather, and glimpse into the future.
The Transformation: On a moonless night, a curious traveler stumbled upon her cottage. From his hiding place, he watched as Mother Willis emerged. Her eyes shimmered like moonstones as she recited incantations. In a blink, she transformed into a sleek, silver hare and darted into the forest.
The Accusations: News of her transformation spread rapidly, and fear took hold of the villagers. They whispered of dark dealings and pacts with the devil. Children would dare each other to approach her cottage, though none ever mustered the courage.
The Trial: Eventually, the local priest led an enraged mob to her home, accusing her of witchcraft and dark sorcery. Mother Willis faced them resolutely, her gaze unwavering as she refused to abandon her powers.
The Final Transformation: As the flames of the pyre began to consume her, something remarkable occurred. Mother Willis transformed once more—a hare with burning fur leaped from the fire and vanished into the night, leaving only ashes behind.
Her Legacy: Today, it’s said that if you wander the woods near Elmley Lovett, you might catch sight of a silver hare. Some believe it’s the spirit of Mother Willis, eternally seeking redemption. Others see it as a guardian spirit, watching over those brave enough to explore the ancient trails.
And so, the legend endures—the moonlit witch, the healer who defied norms. Mother Willis remains a name immortalised in Worcestershire’s folklore, a blend of mystery and magic.
The Tale of the Burford Levellers
One of the most dramatic episodes in Burford's history took place during the English Civil War. In 1649, a group of soldiers known as the Levellers were stationed in Burford. The Levellers were part of the New Model Army and were advocating for greater equality and democracy in England. They wanted to extend voting rights, reform the legal system, and reduce the power of the monarchy and the wealthy elite.
Their ideas were considered radical at the time, and their demands were met with hostility by those in power. Oliver Cromwell, who had become a leading figure in the Parliamentarian cause, viewed the Levellers as a threat to his control. When the Levellers openly defied their commanders and began to mutiny, Cromwell acted swiftly.
Cromwell's forces captured about 300 Levellers and imprisoned them in Burford's Church of St. John the Baptist. The prisoners were held there under harsh conditions, and after a brief trial, three of the Levellers—Cornet James Thompson, Corporal Perkins, and Private John Church—were executed by firing squad in the churchyard on May 17, 1649.
The event left a lasting mark on Burford, and the church still bears witness to this dark chapter in its history. Inside the church, you can see graffiti carved into the stone by the imprisoned soldiers, a poignant reminder of their final days. Each year in May, Levellers' Day is commemorated in Burford, with events that remember the sacrifice of those who stood up for their beliefs.