Old Martha

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Rumour has it that there used to be an lady who lived in a Hovel in the village of Plumpton East Sussex. She was known as Old Martha and it was excepted by all that knew her she was a witch capable of both good and evil. She was believed to be over 100 years old. Yet despite her age she would walk for miles dancing and singing and wearing outlandish clothes. She could easily climb large hills that would have tested accomplished walkers easily covering 20 - 30 miles a day all the while collecting flowers and herbs as she went.

She was said to be able to run as fast backwards as most could run forwards and those that knew her or knew of her would not speak to her in fear of being cursed should they say the wrong thing. She was said to be able to enchant horses of wagon drivers to stop dead in their tracks and refuse to move if the driver refused to pay the toll for travelling passed her house, and would only be able to go again once the toll was paid.

Marcus Woodward author of 'The Mistress of Stantons Farm' tells of a time he was chased by Old Martha who was running backwards chanting incantations and brandishing a long knife.

So if you do find yourself in this lovely little village set in some wonderful countryside remember to look out for 'Old Martha' you never know she might still be around. Just be sure to be polite.

RTI

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