Claim: Francis Brokesby grew up to be nonreligious and even decided to leave Broad Oak in 1670 to go to Rowley, East Riding of Yorkshire.
Evidence: A religious poem of some beauty composed by him on the occasion of his taking his degree illustrates the fervent piety of his character. 
He lived on friendly terms with his predecessor, who used to come and hear him preach. 
In 1670 he left Broad Oak, and became rector of Rowley, East Riding of Yorkshire.