The April meeting of the Saundersfoot Historial Society took the form of an outing to the Castlemartin Ranges, and what an interesting adventure it turned out to be.
Two 18-seater minibuses left Saundersfoot at 9.30 am, on Sunday, April 15, and made their way, via Pembroke, on to Castlemartin.
A short distance west of the village, we entered the now well known and well documented Castlemartin tank and firing ranges. The trip and security process had been prearranged by members of the committee and the security guards, so movement through the well guarded gates was quickly resolved.
The two buses were ideal for this journey, being far more flexible on the fairly narrow roads. At this point, one should mention our two tour guides, Alice Pyper, working for Dyfed Archeology Trust, and Louise Mees, of Cadw. Their contribution and knowledge were fully appreciated during the tour.
The first indication as to the purpose of these ranges, I suppose, would have been the occasional tank which was just a pile of rusted metal which was in evidence around the acres of range; one could almost liken them to ancient Celtic monuments.
Our first stop, where we disembarked, now in brilliant spring sunshine, was to roam around a most impressive building of a farm and outbuildings. This was Brownslade Farm, which had been vacated in 1939, when the War Office made a decision to commandeer 5,000 acres, mainly because of its proximity to the coastline, where testing and firing was made possible.
Local knowledge informed us that this was some of the best wheat growing lands in the country, but I am sure this was a small sacrifice to pay for the success of world war II.
The quality of the farmsteads certainly showed a degree of affluence in that farming period, with the stonework pillars and arches and, in most cases, walled gardens with still existing orchards. It all seemed a little frozen in time.
Following a picnic, sat in the gardens of Brownslade Farm, the party moved on to the next venue, which I am sure we would all agree was the highlight of the day.
Both the minibus drivers were to be commended for negotiating a narrow track to this outermost part of the ranges. On arriving at our destination, we were faced with the most awesome sight, of a lake covering several acres, highlighted by this stone cottage half submerged in the lake. This was Frainslake Mill, possibly dating back to the 18th century. A most impressive sight indeed.
Continuing onwards, we visited two more farmsteads, the first being Prickston. This farm again showed what a magnificent building this once had been with its robust stonework, much of which was still intact, showing again a high degree of farming prosperity.
A short distance brought our adventure almost to a close with yet another most impressive farmstead, the largest of the visit. This was Flimstone with its large house and outbuildings.
The Saundersfoot society is very fortunate to have in its membership, Rev. Robin Webley and his wife Yvonne, so on this occasion Flimstone Church was conveniently our final stop, where Robin held a short service. Tessa and Trish supported with readings, followed by an enthusiastic rendering of 'Cwm Rhondda'.
It would be remiss not to offer our thanks to our guides, and also special thanks to both drivers, 'father and son', for their safe driving.
The next society meeting will be held at Wisemans Bridge Inn on Wednesday, May 20, at 7.30 pm, the subject being 'History of Icons' and the speaker May Heather Witt.
The final meeting of our season will be the guided visit to Carew Mill and Castle on Wednesday, June 3, followed by a picnic in the castle provided by the society. The price will be £10 to include entry charges and picnic.
If you are not attending the May meeting at Wisemans Bridge, please ring Tessa on 813388 either before May 18 or after May 25 if you wish to be included.
D.T.H.