Witty Whitlock

Witty retired from duties of Sexton n 1956 after 35 years of devoted service. He was also a village craftsman and carpenter - the two oak book cupboards and the oak processional cross are examples of his good workmanship.  He was a colourful character and his escapades and 'fireside' stories will become legendary.  He was the last of the village boys to receive their education at the Old Grammar School in Courteenhall.         Written by George Freeston 10th October 1970.

Whitlock's Bell

Whitlock, I love to hear your bell
Take lead and tell
That God is calling to his own
From the grey stone
of Church and aisle
To come and meet with Him awhile.

Just three score years have fallen white
On Belfry height
Yet with unfaltering step you climb
to check the time,
That all may know
Whether their clock is fast or slow.

Your bell should have a tongue of gold
She oft has told
of Christmas and Eastertide
Christ and his bride
For God to enter at her gates.

One final note - her very soul
Speaks when you toll.
So, William, may we hear at last
When life has past,
God's peace ring out o'er human wrong
This evensong.

Written by the Rev. Howard Ussher (Baptist Minister at Blisworth) when Witty was 60 - ie. 1933.