BERROW'S Journal paid homage this week a century ago to Frances Ridley Havergal, the Victorian writer of poetry and prose, and her father, the Rev W.H. Havergal, the composer of church music.

Several hymns, still well known and popular today, were written to the words and music of the Havergals.

This is what "Crowquill" had to say in his Journal Jottings for this week of 1903: "Those who live in the parish of Astley are paying an interesting tribute to the memory of Frances Ridley Havergal, the sweet singer who half-a-century ago lived in that part of wooded Worcestershire.

"It was while she was residing in the pretty ivy-covered Rectory at the side of the old church that many of her verses were composed and some of her prose works were written. It is as pleasant a spot as could be found in rural Worcestershire.

"Miss Havergal did not reside here always. For some time her home was a fine old house on the cliffs overlooking the Severn below Bewdley.

"In a way her father was just as interesting. The Rev W.H. Havergal cared for the souls of Astley for 20 years. He was a Canon of Worcester Cathedral and was Rector of St Nicholas, Worcester, for some years.

"He showed a strong and cultivated interest in church music, and he is remembered as the composer of some well-known hymn tunes and chants, still in general use.

Churchyard

"Father and daughter lie together in a grave near the west boundary of the little churchyard at Astley where the church, with its famous Norman west door, is in a state of semi-demolition and in the restorers' hands.

"Nothing that is of historic interest is being interfered with. The chancel is being enlarged, a new organ is to be built, and a stained glass window will be placed in the tower.

"These things are being done in the remembrance of the gifted lady, Frances Ridley Havergal, who was so well loved by those of her day who lived here, and who still lives in the memory of thousands."