It will be a momentous year for the residents of Lewtrenchard as they prepare to mark 100 years since the death of one of the area’s most prolific figures. 

On January 2, 1924, priest, author, hymn writer, musician, and antiquarian Sabine Baring-Gould died aged 89.  

Baring-Gould played an important role in the development of English music in the 20th-century through his collecting and championing of folksong, and his association with Ralph Vaughan-Williams amongst others. 

During his life, he wrote well in excess of a thousand books and pamphlets, and is also an important figure in the development of the modern horror story. He also contributed opinions on architecture and on the preservation of Dartmoor. 

Over the course of 2024, there are expected to be many celebrations of his life and work all across the country, though celebrations will have an even greater meaning in his home of West Devon.  

Events were kickstarted on January 2, with a service held by Bishop Michael Langrish at the Parish Church of St Peter, Lewtrenchard. Not only did this event mark the centenary commemoration of Baring-Gould’s death, it also served as the launch of the year’s celebrations.  

These events are planned to run until October and include a variety of occasions.  

One event planned for February 18 will welcome the community to explore ‘Baring-Gould and the Legacy of Baring’s Bank and the Slave Trade’.  The event will welcome Rev Tanya Hocking-Still, the Diocesan champion for the UKME community, to help guide the community in reflection on the past and build for the future. 

However, there are plenty of other highlights scheduled for the next ten months, some of these include: Edwardian Parlor Entertainment and supper, Radebeul Church Chamber Choir visiting from Germany, a flower festival, and a whole parish pilgrimage to Exeter.  

Celebrations will be concluded on October 19 and 20, with a ‘Hymn Singing Festival’.  

More information about local and national celebrations can be found at: www.sbgcentenary.co.uk