Elementary, my Dears (Hampshire) Virtual Cache
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Elementary, my Dears (Hampshire)
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(virtual)
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Attractive village and a lovely old church whose cemetery has a very famous occupant
This virtual cache is about a 10-mile drive from Ringwood to an attractive New Forest village. You should be able to park in front of the post office and store at N50 53.872 W001 36.034 near the faithful retainer, who provides excellent refreshment. You must not miss going into the shop which, although it only serves a small village, has a remarkable selection of cheeses – I heartily recommend the Dorset Blue Vinney!
Start from the post office, go past the war memorial, keep the faithful retainer on your right and turn left up the lane; All Saints Church is only a couple of minutes’ walk away at the top of the lane. Part of the church existed in 1272 and bits have been added over the centuries to meet the needs of the congregation. The interior of the church is well worth seeing; it has an unusual 17th Century three-tier pulpit and double-level galleries. You can buy a small guide leaflet for £1.00 which will give you lots more information and/or you can make a voluntary donation towards the church’s upkeep.
Buried in the churchyard is a famous author of classic detective stories, historical novels and a notable series of science fiction tales starring an intrepid Professor. The fact that he was a spiritualist was an embarrassment to the Church of England and they eventually agreed to the interment of his remains, but instructed that they be placed at the far southern boundary of the churchyard, under an oak tree which still bears the scars of two lightning strikes - signs of heaven's displeasure, perhaps?
To solve this cache, you need to answer two questions: first (easy!!), who is the great man? Second: stand facing his grave; to the left is a stone memorial in the form of an open book to a man called Fred Jolley and his wife; what is Mr Jolley's unusual middle name? If you find the lettering is a little indistinct, there is now a new plaque commemorating dear old Fred within a few metres. E-mail the answers to me.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
[No hint, enough info in the main description]