Radford Headstone Approximately 10 Metres East Of North Aisle Of Church Of St Mary

Radford Headstone is located approximately 10 metres east of the north aisle of the Church of St Mary in Down St Mary. This headstone, dated 1865, commemorates Christian Illey Radford. It is made of Bath stone and volcanic stone, enhanced with polychrome mosaic. The upright stone stands about 0.9 metres high and is designed in the Gothic style. It features a tapering shaft with a round head that has moulded edges, resting on a volcanic stone base that supports the moulded surround on either side. The head of the stone has a raised circle enclosing a raised cross pommee, which contains geometric patterns of inlaid polychrome mosaic. The shaft is inscribed with Gothic lettering that notes the death of Christian Illey Radford in 1865, although the lettering is very worn and retains only traces of red paint. This headstone is part of a series of unusual headstones in the churchyard, notable for their use of polychrome mosaic, reflecting the craftsmanship interest of Rev. W T A Radford.