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SEAFORD |
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The church that they should have attended, dedicated to St. Leonard, is of considerable interest. The tower has Norman arches whose jambs have corner-shafts north and south, over them are little splayed windows of the same date (early twelfth century), and there were evidently aisles, not transepts. If the road has been moved it is possible that this tower may have been central formerly, there is no indication of the original arrangement of the west wall. Corresponding with the clearstory of the church the tower has an Early English stage; above is most remarkable Perpendicular work, two stages, each widely receding with sloping set-offs. This is supported by thick walling within the old Norman structure, increasing the total thickness of the walls at the bottom to nearly nine feet; apparently the foundations were insecure. Flint crosses are inlaid with excellent effect. The nave has two large Early English arches on each side, the round pillars have capitals with stiff foliage, interrupted on the south for remarkable little sculptures representing the Crucifixion and other subjects. The clearstory lancets have shafts only outside. Part of the north aisle belonged to the original Norman church, the chancel is entirely modern. An early bas-relief of St. Michael and the Dragon was dug up years ago in the churchyard.
Seaford stands on the east side of the level flats at the mouth of the Ouse, Newhaven being about two miles to the west. It is rapidly being developed as a seaside resort and has a fine esplanade, though otherwise the place has a somewhat unfinished look, the character of a quiet country town is for ever abolished, but |
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