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Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - During a drive along the north Penwith coast we stopped in Zennor for a drink and a wander.
We discovered that the village church had a Christmas Tree festival.
These are a small selection of the many trees on display.
The church is dedicated to the local saint, Saint Senara, and is at least 1400 years old, though it was rebuilt in the 12th century.

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - The church organ.

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - Zennor church is famous for a carved medieval chair, or bench end, displayed in the south side chapel. The carving is generally dated to between 1400-1500. The carving shows a mermaid carrying a comb and mirror.
The Mermaid Legend - A local squire's son named Matthew Trewhella was a member of the church choir, and was known for his pure singing voice. A mermaid named Morveren, hearing his song, came into the church to listen. She was smitten by Matthew and lured the chorister into the sea at nearby Pendour Cove. You can guess the next bit; he never returned, and on warm summer evenings it is said that their voices can be heard joined in song, emanating from beneath the waves. Did the legend inspire the mermaid chair carving, or did the carving give rise to the legend?

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - A closer look at the carving.

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - A few more of the trees.

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - A small tree in the church window.

Zennor Cornwall Dorsetcamera

December 2015 - A fine Cornish sunset on the road just north of Zennor.