The custom of the Tichborne Dole dates back around 800 years to the reign of King Henry II and it looks a safe bet to last another eight centuries. Not that most of the recipients actually need the dole - one gallon of flour per adult and half per child. They just don't want to miss the occasion, which is an important link with the past and a fine chance to meet the neighbours. That figure can be 20 per cent higher when Lady Day falls on a weekend.
Villagers bring carrier bags, pillow cases and any other suitable receptacle.
Before the flour is apportioned, however, it is blessed and the huge flour box is sprinkled with incense and holy water. Then a blessing is made on the soul of Lady Mabella Tichborne, who started it all. Lady Mabella, a woman noted for her charity and piety, was married to Roger de Tichborne, son of Walter de Tichborne, direct male line ancestor of the Tibornes of Tichborne. Roger, a rough and ready soldier, was a complete contrast to his saintly wife and even the imminent death of Mabella failed to arouse any compassion. Her last request that the value of a small portion of the Tichborne estates be given annually to the poor of the parish in the form of a dole was greeted with typical brutality.