St James's Church (Strange Niche), Staunton (nr. Newent)

This strange niche is on the south wall of the church, and as can be seen partly hidden by pews. Perhaps it used to contain an effigy of a knight, like the one in Bishops Frome Church (Herefordshire) which I visited later the same day, which still survives. Here it would appear the floor level has been raised since the original work, and some damage has occurred. The piscina next to it is a survival from a former chapel, which apparently existed before the present Chancel was built.

(Commentary provided by Rosemary Lockie)