ST James’ Church in Bratton has often been referred to as the church in isolation, as at one time it was only accessible by tracks and field paths.

So why is it that the church is so far from the village?

The answer is that in medieval times there were three hamlets in this area: Little Stoke, which now has almost disappeared and was around the church; Milbourne, which included the present centre of the village around the war memorial and included Stradbrook; and Bratton itself, which was the district near the old Court House.

Originally the church served the hamlet of Lttle Stoke, and in fact is referred to as the church of Little Stoke in the earliest records.

In 1832 the road up to the church from Stradbrook was built. A little later, at the instigation of the Rev C Palairet, a series of 208 steps were constructed, making the church easier to reach from the village. Our archive picture shows work carried out to make easier access to the church, but over the years the hedgerows and trees have grown, making the church only just visible.

The church steps are now being tended by a group of volunteers affectionately known as the Monday Gang, who are making sure the walkway is properly maintained.

Our piece last week referred to items of historic interest, seats brought from St Giles Church in Imber and a carved 17th century chest, being inside the church.

Sadly these are no longer there and are thought to have been stolen since the publication of the guide used to research our feature.