A Texan couple have been announced as the new owners of what is thought to be England s oldest hotel, the Old Bell in Malmesbury. Kim and Whit Hanks have also agreed to buy the neighbouring Abbey House Gardens, once home to the Naked Gardeners and famed for its clothes optional days. The founders of Whim Hospitality, Camp Lucy and Tillie’s Restaurant in Dripping Springs, Texas say they are exceptionally thrilled to take on the sites. They are regular visitors to the town which has been the Hanks family ancestral home since before 1500. Pioneering Malmesbury industrialist, Walter Hanks, operated a mill below The Old Bell Hotel on the River Avon in the late 1100’s.
Published:
10:00 AM December 9, 2020
Updated:
11:11 AM December 16, 2020
Revd Canon Janet Nicholls will lead the Essex Farmers’ drive-in carol service at Chelmsford City Racecourse. Picture: DIOCESE OF CHELMSFORD
- Credit: Diocese of Chelmsford
The Essex Farmers’ drive-in carol service takes place on Sunday (Dec 13) at 2.30pm.
Led by Rev Canon Janet Nicholls, the event at Chelmsford City Racecourse will include Christmas messages from the High Sheriff of Essex Julie Fosh and from the Bishop of Colchester, the Rt Revd Roger Morris.
Bishop Roger will bless a crib made by local churches.
Nancy May and a small choir from New Hall School will lead the singing. There will also be festive decorated tractors.