THOSE who have ever wondered about the origins of the popular Devon pub name The Church House Inn, can go along to an evening lecture at the Devon Rural Archive (DRA) at Shilstone, near Modbury, on Thursday, June 6 at 7pm which will explain their history and role in the community.

Entitled 'Church Houses in Devon: Community, Continuity and Change over 500 years' the illustrated talk will be given by Dr Susan Andrew of Plymouth University. She holds a PhD in the art of Devon churches and an MA in conservation architecture focusing on the Church House at Walkampton. She has long been fascinated by the art of Devon churches and in particular the medieval treasures hidden in rural parishes.

Abi Gray, consultant archaeologist at the DRA, said: 'Originally built to house church ales and parish gatherings in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, there are many church houses still surviving in Devon today. Many of these became inns after the 16th century, but some became poor houses or schools before moving into private ownership.'

The illustrated talk will take place in the lecture theatre at the Devon Rural Archive at Shilstone, near Modbury, at 7pm. To book tickets contact Abi on 01548 830832 or email her on [email protected]">[email protected]

Tickets are £5 each and include refreshments which will be available from 6.30pm when doors open. For further information visit http://www.devonruralarchive.com">www.devonruralarchive.com