The Mountfield carpenter John Tapsell gave his name to a distinctive type of gate which pivots on a central pillar, thus rendering hinges and fastenings unnecessary.  It is assumed that they were designed to prevent animals from straying into the churchyards, and they were easier to carry a coffin through.

 

Tapsell gates are something of a rarity but you can find three fairly close together at Friston, East Dean and Jevington churches.  Jevington is a particularly puzzling example as it has a step in the centre so it can be used as a stile, but as the gate opens easily and there is no fastening, its purpose seems obscure.

 

Friston pond, just beyond the church, has a peculiar claim to fame - reputedly the first village pond to be listed as an ancient monument.

 

Access

At the entrance to the churchyard.

 

 

 

 

 

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