A LUNCHTIME lecture held at The Wharf in Tavistock last week was a success as 125 people gathered to listen to a talk given by Dr Todd Gray, historian of Devon.

His entertaining lecture was on Daily Life between 1550 and 1650. The kitchen account for Sydenham House detailed the diet of the gentry, including the purchase of all provisions and provided an insight into 17th century life. The current Grade I listed building is situated in Marystow, about 13 miles south west of Okehampton. It was built between 1600 and 1612 for Sir Thomas Wise, the High Sherfiff of Devon in 1612.

During the Second World War the house was let to Glendower school for girls and some members of the audience had attended the school. In 1950 it reverted to a private residence.

Dr Gray, who is an Honorary Research Fellow of Exeter University, and currently Chairman of the Devonshire Association, engaged in a lively question and answer session at the end of the lecture.