Haunting History of Watchet: Accounts of Premature Burial, Ghosts and Eerie Folklore with Bobbie Rammond

Nestled along the Somerset coast, Watchet is a captivating harbor town steeped in history and blessed with breathtaking geography. Watchet's origins trace back to a possible Iron Age fort, Daw's Castle, before evolving into a bustling settlement under Saxon influence, earning names like Weced and Waeced. Viking incursions in the 10th century failed to extinguish its spirit, as the town's maritime trade steadily flourished. Amidst this historical tapestry, the town's church, dedicated to Saint Decuman, stands as a testament to its enduring legacy. Watchet isn't merely a town; it's a living narrative of resilience and natural wonder, inviting all who venture there to partake in its captivating story.

My Special Guest is Bobbie Rammond
Bobbie Rammond is a history and archaeology enthusiast, with a degree in history, heritage, and archaeology from Plymouth University. During his time at university, he discovered his passion for history while working at Dunster Castle. This led him to delve into paranormal investigations, which he has been doing for several years. Last year, with Halloween approaching, Bobbie had an idea to combine his love for history and the paranormal by organising historical walking tours of Dunster. This sparked the creation of Extours, with their first event being the Dunster Ghost Walk.

Ghost Lore

The Somerset spectre, Old Mother Leakey, tied to storms and shipwrecks in Minehead, haunted Alexander Leakey's home in 1636. Witnesses claimed the ghost suffocated a young relative, and Elizabeth, Alexander's wife, faced its torment. Old Mother Leakey assigned Elizabeth two tasks: retrieve a gold necklace and deliver a cryptic message to her brother-in-law, Dr. John Atherton, Bishop of Waterford. This seemingly benign message unravelled scandalous secrets, including Atherton's affair with Susan Leakey, branded as adultery and incest. Dark rumours of child murder to hide the affair swirled, leading to Atherton's hanging in December 1640. Old Mother Leakey's ghost played a role in this tragedy, leaving the Leakey family's fortunes in ruins and birthing the legend of her storm-summoning powers.

Premature Burial

Premature burial, often referred to as live burial or vivisepulture, is the horrifying ordeal of being interred while still alive and was once a very real problem. Taphophobia, the irrational dread of being buried alive, ranks among the most prevalent phobias, haunting the subconscious fears of many with its chilling spectre.

In this episode, you will be able to:

1. Uncover the story of Lady Wyndham and more about the problem of premature burial

2. Explore myths, history and accounts of murder from Watchet

3. Explore the fascinating folkore and ghost lore of Watchet.

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