Coddington

Book: Coddington

Yes - after a gap of 102 years Coddington is once again revealing its dark secrets, both ancient and modern in a new 48 page full colour booklet, appropriately called "Coddington".

So if you thought that Coddington was only a source of wine, Christmas trees and Buddhist meditation, and are curious to learn more about your neighbouring parish, then this could be just for you.

It is now 155 years since the last of Coddington's mud huts was demolished (from Anglo Saxon Coton, meaning a collection of mud huts), and it now boasts such modern necessities as fibre broadband, electricity and mains water which would have been a revelation to the last mud hut resident John Jenkins, who survived to his 107th year, despite being addicted to 19th century shag. Visitors to the village can now enjoy the sight of some five black & white cottages, succeeded by the later newer houses constructed of bricks from the neighbouring brickyard at Stoneyard Green.

In the booklet you will learn about the association with Coddington of Jeremy Thorpe, one time leader of the Liberal Party; Michael Bentine, creator of the Goon Show; and Churchill's niece Sarah, who worked on the ENIGMA project at Bletchley Park in WW2.

Teetotallers may, no doubt be cheered by the 1989 petition signed by 75% of the residents demanding that one (or both) of the pubs in the village should be closed. But beer drinkers may be reassured that it took another 12 years for the desire to be granted.

Also included are chapters on the natural heritage of the parish, its geology, current farming practice, an insight into the history of Coddington Court and its current occupiers, the Buddhist community Adhisthama, plus a review of All Saints Church, local walks, village maps, old and new, and anecdotes, both good and otherwise, about previous residents and their dwellings throughout the ages.

For a tiny parish - just 1.8 square miles and just 39 dwellings, Coddington is far from "sleepy" and can offer much of interest. You are very welcome to share it.

To order a copy of the book, click here.  The price of £5.99 includes UK second class postage by Royal Mail.  Proceeds will be shared equally between St Michaels Hospice and All Saints Church in Coddington.

Special offer: order Ebenezer and Coddington together for £8.00 including postage.