In the Somerset village of Chedzoy on July 19, the sale of almost an acre of land went up in smoke — as it has done every 21 years since 1490.
The land is auctioned to whoever makes the highest bid in the time it takes for a half-inch candle to burn itself out. This medieval method of sale was stipulated by the local landowner who gave the land to the parish in the 15th century on the condition that it was auctioned every 21 years to raise funds for the repairs of the village church.
More than 200 people packed the marquee in the garden of Chedzoy’s Manor House Inn for the sale of the 21-year lease.
After 26 minutes and 26 seconds the candle expired, which meant the £1,600 bid made jointly by Mr Howes and Mr McLarnon of Bridgwater was the successful offer. The first recorded price — in 1672 — was £6.
At present, the land is used for the grazing of poultry and livestock, although it is capable of being used for market gardening.
The auction was conducted by Nick Hawksley, a partner at Clutton’s Bath office.
