Windy Post cross

This image was taken in April 1953 of the Windy Post or Beckamoor Cross, which stands north west of Feather Tor, beside the Grimstone and Sortridge Leat. Its purpose was to mark the route of the Abbots' Way across Whitchurch Common, from Merrivale Bridge to Moortown. This is a well-shaped champfered cross, being of a later period than most on the moor, possibly thought to be from the 16th Century, and it may be a replacement for a much older cross that once stood on this site. It is in good condition and does not appear to have needed repair. The cross is set into a large socket stone which is largely in the ground. The cross is currently tilted over at quite an angle to the west. This is probably due to livestock using it as a rubbing post.