Description

Westbury-on-Severn in the county of Gloucestershire lies within the district of the Forest of Dean with the River Severn to the east, although it is a very different place to its wooded, industrial neighbour.

Westbury-on-Severn: A Story of Life in a Gloucestershire Parish looks at the parish's heritage and its people as well as its religious life, social and political life, sporting prowess, industry, and welfare. It recounts the people that shaped the area, such as the Cadles, Bainhams, Boughtons, and Colchesters.

There are stories of the high price the parish paid during countless battles and wars that scarred the landscape, especially at the church, with its separate bell tower, whose spire, covered in wooden shingles, dominates the parish skyline.

There are also chapters on the Poor Law Institution and the buildings within the area, many of which are listed, including Chaxhill House and Dove House. Particular attention is paid to Walmore Common, still owned by the Crown and to Westbury Court (now sadly lost to the nation) and its Dutch Water Gardens that are maintained by The National Trust as well as stories of royalty, religious conviction, and loyal service to the parish.

Westbury-on-Severn: A Story of Life in a Gloucestershire Parish is about part of the country that is unknown to most but is so brimful of history that its story deserves to be told.