In the heart of the Norfolk Broads, a beloved landmark was in trouble. The Cross of Peace at St Benet’s Abbey, a stunning 20-foot tall structure made from English oak, had developed a noticeable lean. This iconic symbol of faith and community had been a gift from Queen Elizabeth II almost 40 years ago, and its tilt was causing concern among locals and visitors alike. The cross, which stands proudly on the banks of the River Bure, had been battered by the elements and had also become a scratching post for the cows that graze in the surrounding marshes. As the days passed, the lean became more pronounced, and with an annual open-air service just around the corner, something had to be done to save this cherished landmark.
As the news of the tilting cross spread, a sense of urgency filled the air. The annual open-air service, a cherished tradition in the community, was just days away, and the thought of holding it with the cross in disarray was unbearable. It was then that a group of local farmers, who have always been the backbone of the community, stepped forward to offer their help. With their machinery and expertise, they volunteered to straighten the cross and restore it to its former glory. The farmers, Tim, Sam, and Louis, worked tirelessly to nudge the cross back upright, using a cherry picker and tools to carefully adjust its position. Their selfless act was a testament to the strong sense of community and camaraderie that exists in Norfolk, where neighbors look out for one another and come together in times of need.
The Revd Ben Bradshaw, the local rector, was overwhelmed with gratitude as he watched the farmers work their magic. “We have some wonderful local farmers at St Benet’s who came out with their machinery to straighten up the cross,” he said, beaming with appreciation. “It is testament to the Norfolk spirit that their time and effort was given voluntarily, and we are so grateful to Tim, Sam, and Louis for their help.” The rector’s words echoed the sentiments of the entire community, which has always been proud of its strong rural heritage and the people who work tirelessly to maintain it. The farmers’ selfless act was a reminder that even in these challenging times, there are still good people who are willing to lend a helping hand, without expecting anything in return.
As the cross was restored to its former glory, the community breathed a collective sigh of relief. The annual open-air service could now go ahead as planned, and the sacred site would once again be a symbol of hope and faith for all who visited. The Cross of Peace, which has stood tall for nearly four decades, would continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. The story of the tilting cross and the heroes who saved it would be etched in the memories of the locals, a reminder of the power of community and the importance of preserving our heritage. The incident also highlighted the importance of maintaining and preserving our cultural and historical landmarks, which are an integral part of our identity and our connection to the past.
The Cross of Peace at St Benet’s Abbey is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The abbey, which dates back to the 11th century, has been a place of worship and contemplation for centuries, and the cross has been a part of it for almost 40 years. The fact that it was a gift from Queen Elizabeth II makes it even more special, and its restoration is a testament to the community’s respect and appreciation for its heritage. The story of the cross and the farmers who saved it will be told and retold for generations to come, inspiring future generations to cherish and protect their cultural and historical landmarks.
In the end, the story of the tilting cross and the heroic farmers who saved it is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and the importance of preserving our heritage. It shows that even in these challenging times, there are still good people who are willing to lend a helping hand, without expecting anything in return. The Cross of Peace at St Benet’s Abbey will continue to stand tall, a symbol of hope and faith, thanks to the selfless act of a group of local farmers who embodied the true spirit of Norfolk. Their story will inspire others to come forward and make a difference in their own communities, and it will be a reminder that together, we can overcome any challenge and achieve great things. The full story of the leaning cross and its restoration can be read on the Eastern Daily Press website, a testament to the power of local journalism in telling the stories that matter most to our communities.
