Clayhidon Murder Trail (Exeter Branch)

David Pugsley’s guided walk is designed as a re-enactment of the infamous murder of William Blackmore in Clayhidon in 1853, and the subsequent trial, conviction and execution of the perpetrator, George Sparks.

Participants will gather at the Half Moon Inn in Clayhidon at 11am, thereafter driving down to the Village Hall car-park. They will then walk down to the plaque marking the scene of the crime and around the roads where they chased each other in the dark, stopping at various points to recount the story.

Lunch will be taken back at the pub, where the coroner’s inquest was held, followed by an account of the Exeter Assizes trial in March 1853, including the speech for the defence by John Coleridge of Ottery St Mary, the future Lord Chief Justice.

Booking is required: numbers will be limited to 15 and there is no charge. The event is expected to end by 3.30 pm.

Note that the route is quite steep in places and expect some audience participation!