Wentworth Village - in bloom

Frank's sister, Margaret and Kevin drove to Wentworth Village, South Yorkshire last week, to enjoy lunch at the George and Dragon Pub (below) their youngest son, Matthew is the head chef here - a great meal - of course - for his Mum and Dad.

The history of Wentworth village is inextricably linked with the history of the great aristocratic familys, the Wentworths, Watsons and Fitzwilliams, who presided over if for generations. The sketch above is of the Wentworth Woodhouse - the longest frontage of any house in England - 600 feet. It is now in private hands and not open to the public.

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Only recently, following the end of the Fitzwilliam family line in 1979, has the village started to lead a more independent existence with much of the property being managed by a trust.

The managing Trust does an excellent job of preserving the character of the village,

and continues to make charitable donations for the benefit of residents.

Below is the new Church, commissioned by the 6th Earl Fitzwilliam in memory of his parents, apparently it is like a Cathedral inside. The old church built in 13th century is partially in ruins now, though still used for special events.

AND ON SUNDAY THERE WAS A WEDDING

Followed by pre and post service drinks

in the Beer Garden of the Pub where Matt cooks up a storm - on a glorious sunny morning.

The Bride, Amanda, her Dad and crew arrived in this Combi Van Just love it!!

Amanda and Jorden, have done loads and loads of wandering around this world.

(A Combi van was my first wagon in England too, just a little while ago - 4 decades exactly!!!!).

We first met Amanda and Jorden in Sydney at end of 2008

Jorden is the brother of our neice in law - Clare who married our Nephew Nick (Kevin and Margaret's middle son), about one year ago in a Helicopter above the evening lights of Las Vegas.

Clare and Nick at the George and Dragon drinks on Sunday,

and Clare, centre, on New Years Eve 2008 - "Lawn with a View" Botanic Gardens, Sydney, with Nick on the left and Amanda and brother Jorden on the right.

AND Clare and Jorden's parents - Gill and Frank, a lovely colourful Sydney sky that night!

All the best Amanda and Jorden