THE wishes of an 18th century churchgoer will be fulfilled in style next Saturday when a member of the clergy turns back the clock to mark his death.

Parish priest the Rev Dr Ruth Hansford will take to horseback to fulfil the wishes of a 250-year-old legacy that will earn the church of St Michael at Meeth just ten shillings (50p).

Dr Hansford is set to arrive at Meeth Church in 18th century style where she will deliver a sermon that was requested in the will of Samuel Jerman, a member of the parish in 1758. He asked that a sermon be preached every year on the anniversary of his death in return for a 10 shilling fee.

In the same will, written in 1758, he also left the sum of £100 for the poor of the parish — a large amount for those times. The charity administering this fund has only recently been wound up.

While the church was without a vicar, the tradition lapsed, but new priest in charge Dr Hansford, who has recently returned from maternity leave, will continue it.

The sermon, which will mark the 250th anniversary of his death, is being held on Saturday December 6 with the church gates opening at 7.20pm to welcome Dr Hansford.

She said: 'Not a lot is known about Samuel Jerman, beyond that he was a leaseholder of land and yeoman of the parish, but I am happy to fulfil the terms of the will, even though we won't be claiming the ten shillings.'

Torridge Male Voice Choir will be singing a selection of songs during the evening, which will be followed by refreshments and mulled cider in the the church.

There will be no charge on entry but donations are welcome to cover expenses and any surplus to the church and its redecoration project.

The nave of the church at Meeth is probably substantially 12th century. The chancel has been partly rebuilt. In the churchyard is a monument to John Lempriere, compiler of the famous classical dictionary, who was rector there from 1811.