The Great Escape from Woodhouse's Pinfold
By
Brian Axon
What a day it was on Tuesday, 8th February 2005. The sun was shining, a welcome awaited at St. Mary's Church in Woodhouse, and there were 8 sheep in the Pinfold, courtesy of John Reynolds of Upper Broombriggs Farm.
What is a Pinfold? An enclosure in very common use during the 18th & 19th centuries where stray animals would be impounded overnight until the owner collected them on payment of a fine. There are still many scattered throughout the countryside, but no longer in use.
In 1999, Jill Honisett realised that the ancient Pinfold alongside St. Mary's Church was rapidly deteriorating and being used as a rubbish tip. She decided that this would make an excellent millennium restoration project. It was not easy, many problems had to be overcome besides convincing people of the importance of this historical asset. With dogged determination and hard work Jill managed to persuade the various local Councils that it was all worth while, and they kindly provided various grants, which then enabled contact to be made with a number of local craftsmen who created an excellent restoration of the Pinfold.
A date was arranged of 8th. February, and the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Mike Jones agreed to perform the official opening ceremony. About 30 guests arrived at St. Mary's Church, councillors and residents, who then made their way to the Pinfold. The Mayor made a short speech, and mentioned how the enclosure was there to secure the 8 sheep until their owner arrived. The sheep however had other ideas, as 3 of them suddenly decided to make a break for freedom by leaping over the stonewall, and heading rapidly towards Woodhouse village. Fortunately there was little traffic around and they felt a large field was more inviting than a Pinfold. Meanwhile, the Mayor, made of sterner stuff, completed the ceremony by cutting a red ribbon, declaring 'the Pinfold open' .The three sheep were soon rounded up, and together with those that stayed behind, were taken back to their farm. It was all very exciting, and made a good talking point as everyone returned to the Church for a very welcome cup of tea.
Many people were involved in the organisation besides Jill, but perhaps mention should be made of Norman James, who; besides looking after the Church details, chased and cornered the three escapees in the field.
Brian Axon
First published February 2005
