Marking Time

AN ancient type of sundial, which is part of the Steyning 2000 programme, has been unveiled in Steyning.

The sundial is situated between the library and the museum and is part of the Steyning 2000 programme.

George Cockman, chairman of the Steyning 2000 committee, told the Shoreham/Steyning Herald that not all the Steyning 2000 projects were completed in the millennium year and added that another was nearing completion.

The sundial is a type which was used by Downland shepherds, who placed their crooks in a set point to cast a shadow on stones marking the hours.

The project was particularly dear to committee member Avril Toomey, who sadly died before the programme came to fruition.

Mr Cockman said that Avril left a generous amount of money to the committee, which has funded this and other projects.

The words Love Avril are inscribed on the large scale of dates stone in tribute to Mrs Toomey.

Mr Cockman said: I hope our fellow residents and visitors will enjoy this new feature.

It s a part of Sussex history outside the museum and I think it fits very well into the space.

A lot of children pass through here and it s fun for them to stand at the correct point and see the results by simply holding up a hand to cast a shadow.

For more on this story, see the Herald, August 16.