A sudden sinkhole has opened up in the cemetery of All Saints' Church in Martock, Somerset, uncovering a hidden ancient crypt believed to date back over 300 years. The sinkhole, approximately 12 feet wide, emerged on Saturday, November 8, revealing part of a collapsed tomb and rubble beneath the churchyard.
All Saints' Church, a Grade I listed building dating from the 13th century and the second largest parish church in Somerset, sits on a site thought to have origins before 1156. The newly exposed crypt is believed to have been constructed prior to the 1700s, offering a rare glimpse into the area’s historical burial practices.
Safety measures have been swiftly enacted, with barriers erected around the sinkhole to prevent accidents. Martock Parish Council issued a warning to visitors, urging caution around the churchyard and confirming the presence of a collapsed grave at the site.
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Reverend Paul Fillery of All Saints Church spoke to the BBC regarding the incident, stating, “We are working closely with the parish council and consulting experts from the diocese to determine the safest path forward. The site will remain securely fenced until essential repairs are completed.” He added that the discovery has attracted considerable attention from locals and visitors alike.
The sinkhole’s appearance just one day before Remembrance Sunday services added an unexpected layer of significance to the historic site. Authorities continue to assess the stability of the surrounding ground to ensure the safety of all visitors and the preservation of the churchyard’s heritage.