Sidbury

Many thanks to Sidbury Church of England Primary School for facilitating this camera's location and to Ventrus Multi Academy Trust  for capitally funding its installation.The River Sid, located in East Devon, is a modest waterway that stretches for approximately 6.5 miles in a southerly direction. It originates from a source nestled within Crowpits Covert, situated at an elevation of 206 meters above sea level. The source emerges from a small ravine, marking the beginning of the river's course. Flowing through the towns of Sidbury and Sidford, the river eventually reaches Sidmouth, where it is supplemented by springs originating from East Hill, as well as water from the Roncombe Stream, the Snod Brook, and the Woolbrook. At Sidmouth, the river discharges into the Ham area through a shingle bar.Sidbury, a substantial village and former civil parish positioned north of Sidmouth, now falls within the administrative boundaries of Sidmouth and the East Devon district in Devon, England. According to the 2011 census, the built-up area of Sidbury was inhabited by a population of 457 individuals.The village is situated along the A375 road and lies adjacent to the River Sid, which originates from Crowpits Covert (OSGB36 grid reference SY138963) and meanders for a distance of 6 miles (10 km) before reaching Lyme Bay at Sidmouth. Notably, Sidbury Castle, located above the village, serves as the site of an Iron Age hill fort, bearing historical significance.Sidbury finds its mention in the Domesday Book as the manor of Sideberia, held by Bishop Osbern of Exeter, further underscoring its historical lineage. The Church of St Peter and St Giles, a notable landmark in the village, boasts a Norman tower crowned with a spire, a Saxon crypt, a gunpowder storage room dating back to the Napoleonic era, and a font that is over 500 years old. The tower houses a set of eight bells, with the earliest ones dating from 1662 and 1663, while the remaining six were installed in 1712, 1750, 1752, 1776, and two in 1947, completing the current set. Although the church itself is predominantly Norman, the tower was meticulously reconstructed in 1884. The north aisle potentially dates back to the 13th century, while the south porch exhibits Perpendicular architectural style. The church features medieval windows from various periods, and its octagonal font showcases Perpendicular design elements. Notably, the Church of St Peter and St Giles is recognized as a Grade I listed building.Within the churchyard rests the final resting place of the esteemed actress Joan Hickson, renowned for her leading role in the television series Miss Marple, who is interred under her married name of Joan Bogle Butler.