New Window in Ladock Church in Memory of Lady Mary Holborow
Lady Mary and Geoffrey Holborow lived in Ladock House for over forty years, devoting much of their spare time and energy to the wellbeing of the village and the church. A window to commemorate Geoffrey’s life and contribution to the parish was installed in the church two years ago; it has now been joined by another in memory of Lady Mary. This window was funded by contributions from family, friends and former colleagues, including the church’s patron, the Worshipful Company of Grocers.
Both windows have been designed by Oriel Hicks from the Isles of Scilly, whose work there Geoffrey and Lady Mary much admired. They are adjacent and complement each other beautifully. The new window in memory of Lady Mary is based on Harry Glasson’s poem, ‘Cornwall My Home’, and features the words ‘For this is my Eden and I’m not alone, for this is my Cornwall and this is my home’. It includes representations of Cape Cornwall, Chapel Porth, Longships Lighthouse with Scilly in the distance, as well as St Michael’s Mount. The link with Ladock is represented by the Celtic cross that forms our war memorial. Lady Mary’s official role is conveyed through the inclusion of her Lord Lieutenant’s badge. Her favourite shrub, the hydrangea, is also depicted. The entire composition is full of light and interest.
A special dedication service was held in early June 2019, attended by nearly two hundred people, including the family, Oriel Hicks and Harry Glasson. Lady Mary had strong connections with Cornwall’s male voice choirs, fifty of whom were present to sing ‘Cornwall my Home’, followed by an impromptu rendition of Trelawny.
This wonderful window forms a worthy addition to our already renowned stained glass. All of it is well worth a visit whenever you are passing.
