St Michael's

A small rural church on banks of River Tanat in hamlet of Llanyblodwel near Welsh border. The church was substantially rebuilt in c1847 by Revd John Parker incorporating medieval remains and a 1791 built schoolroom. Earliest elements include a tall, narrow Norman south doorway, perpendicular north aisle arcade of three bays with simple short octagonal piers and two perpendicular east windows. Later works are recognisable by an imposing octagonal w steeple crowned by a curved stone spire, dormer windows in the north and south walls and arches with curly cusping. The Revd Parker had strong family links with the area, and not only rebuilt the church, the vicarage and a new school but personally executed an extensive scheme of wall paintings comprising scripture texts and decorative work as well as internalcarvings. The community is loyal and protective of the church as although widely dispersed, most are old farming families with long standing family links. There is also a revival of interest in the church amongst more recent incomers and as well as visitors who will be encouraged by modern toilet and refreshment facilities.