One thousand and seventy eight years ago - in 947AD [140 years before the Norman Domesday Book of 1086], a Saxon manuscript called ‘The Washington Charter” was written in Latin, at a time when King Eadred granted land to Eadric including “Yffel’s clearing” - an ancient settlement which is now called Ifield within the Parish.

In the translated Latin manuscript, it is written:

“Although the decrees of Bishops and words of priests are fixed…like…mountains, nevertheless…even the religion of God’s holy Church is spoiled and broken by the marks of evil. Therefore, foreseeing the uncertain state of times to come, we have decreed that it will be of advantage to our successors…that those things decided in discussion be confirmed and corroborated in connected wording.

“On that account I, Eadred, King of the English and governor and ruler…grant to…a very faithful and beloved…Eadric…twenty hides in…Washington (which includes Yffel/Ifield - Ed].

Map showing Ifield Brook Meadows [left of centre]

“And I order in the name of Almighty God…nobody may presume to bring this…to nought…If anyone…with rashness presumes to make violent incursions upon it, let him know that without doubt he will pay the penalty in fear and trembling before the tribunal of the last judgement…”

So, be warned Homes England!

Richard W. Symonds

The Ifield Society

Ifield Street, Ifield Village

Crawley, West Sussex

Letter to the editor: Yyffel (Ifield) and the Washington (Sussex) Charter of 947AD - 140 years before the (Norman) Domesday book of 1086