Episode 1: The Ghost Vicar of Vernham Dean

Test Valley Tales Podcast

Hello, I'm Amanda.

In this episode I retell a local ghost legend from Vernham Dean in Test Valley, set in the time of the plague.

Legend says that the vicar, wracked with guilt, still haunts the old Roman road that leads to the top of Conholt Hill. But why is his ghost still there and what is his guilty secret?

This story is suitable for children aged 7+ (although probably not best listened to before bedtime). Adults will enjoy listening any time of the day!

After the story I interview the wonderful Jill Palmer, a local resident, about this and other stories from the area.

Accompanied by music from renowned folk musician Paul Sartin, this is a fascinating episode full of historical facts and local folklore.

Hope you enjoy it!

'Test Valley Tales' is an Arts Council Funded project and one of Test Valley Arts Foundation's Borough of Culture Legacy Projects. All the stories are set in the beautiful landscape of Test Valley which is in Hampshire in England.

There is also an illustrated book of the all the stories which accompanies this podcast. This is available from my website. Please see link below.

Story written by Amanda Kane-Smith, based on a local legend.

Podcast produced by Miles Kane-Smith.

Music by Paul Sartin recorded at WildGoose Records.

Test Valley Tales can be found on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter as @testvalleytales.

For more information please go to:

www.merry-go-roundstorytelling.co.uk/testvalleytales