The Churchyard of St Leonard, Downham deep in Pendle Witch Country -with Deborah Contessa

Nestled at the foot of the enigmatic Pendle Hill, Downham village holds secrets of bygone eras within its serene landscape. The church, a cornerstone of this quaint settlement, has an indeterminate origin that seems to fade into the mists of time. During a significant reconstruction in 1910, remnants believed to be from the Saxon or early Norman period were unearthed, hinting at the ancient roots of this sacred place. Adding to the intrigue is the presence of a parish field named Kirkacre, a term steeped in Saxon heritage. Such clues weave a compelling narrative that suggests a church may have stood here well before the Norman Conquest. A cautious yet fascinating estimate posits the church’s presence at around one thousand years, a testament to the enduring legacy of Downham's spiritual heart.