Folklorist Dr Jacqueline Simpson on bee folklore
The story of Emily Kaye, whose life was cut short by domestic violence in 1924. Her story circulated when I was a child. The murder was a national news story at the time and inspired the murder scene in Hitchcock's Rear Window.
THE WITCH LEGEND OF NAN TUCK
Bonfire parades have a long tradition in Sussex, pre-dating the gunpowder plot, and this track features audio recordings collected from various parades, together with woodland recordings used in their entirety.
The film features footage from 2017's Jack in the Green parade in Hastings (Mythago Morris) and St Margaret's, the 13th Century church at Buxted from the ancient yew in the graveyard.
As I neared completion of the video, I went in search of more Buxted footage. Following helpful advice from a local man, I was directed to St Margaret's church.
I was surprised by the arrival of Derek, the gravedigger, pictured here. I really wanted to do a short interview with him, but the camera stopped working.
He was aware of the Nan Tuck Legend, passed down from his grandmother, and told me about the layout of the church grounds and how they've changed.
In 1952 a contributor to Sussex County Magazine described the stories and folklore passed to her from her Nanny by a woman known in her childhood, a Mrs Jasper, reputed to be a witch. Mrs Jasper boasted of having a charm to make fairies come. The words were noted, but not the melody, so I’ve added my own.
Sound check, Hailsham Pavilion
After filming Clare Goodall at Arundel Castle, I then encountered another bagpipe player when I drove to Eastbourne. Richard plays bagpipes on the South Downs every day. More of Richard later. For now, check out Clare's excellent playing and description.
A moment in the preparations for the flower festival at Lullington church in 2017. The flower festivals only take place every seven years.