Geograph - photograph every grid square

Grade II Listed Market cross re-sited here in the 19th century. The plaque reads 'Stanhope Market Cross. This column is all that remains of the market cross erected on the occasion of the re-founding of Stanhope market in 1669 by Bishop John Cosin. The market and fairs were established first by Bishop Thomas Langley in 1421'. Cardinal Langley granted Stanhope two annual fairs and a weekly market to be held on Fridays. Market day was moved to Wednesday, presumably in 1669, reportedly at request of the local rector so that a market did not fall on Good Friday a "great profanation of the memory of the death and passion of our Lord." The new cross was erected in 1871 and the Local Board of Health took over the running of the market in 1873.