Members of Dawlish Local History Group visited Forde House, Newton Abbot, and were given an entertaining and informative tour by Michael Martyn, a volunteer guide whose knowledge and memory astounded everyone.

The Elizabethan house, which was enlarged in Jacobean times, has been home to several wealthy and aristocratic families such as the Raleighs and the Courteneys. It has also provided hospitality to various monarchs, including Charles I and William of Orange.

During the Civil War, Lord Fairfax and Cromwell also stayed there after capturing Exeter for the Parliamentarians.

The house boasts beautiful plasterwork ceilings, two of which are barrel vaulted. There are original panelled walls and elaborately carved fireplaces. Teignbridge Council has restored the building and preserved these fine features for us all to enjoy. The house will now be open one day a month instead of once a year and is well worth a visit.

l Due to the death of the chairman, Dr A R Thompson, many longserving members missed the visit to Forde House to attend his memorial service at Dawlish Methodist Church, said a group spokesman. Bob had been chairman for almost 19 years, up until January this year, when he stepped down.

l First published in the Dawlish Gazette on September 9.