More information : SW 789 607 (1) Two incomplete human skeletons were discovered during building operations in Beach Road, about 200 yds from Crantock church.
Turk considers them medieval, probably 14th or 15th century, but Thomas thinks that they represent part of the extensive pre-medieval Christian cemetery of Langarrow or Langorroc. This was the monastic establishment now represented by Crantock parish and churchyard. (See SW 76 SE 16 and 21 for College and Church). (1,2)
Throughout this century inhumations have been located along Beach Road. These appear to be christian burials and burials in coffins. The burials described by authority (2) were reported to be found laying side by side and looked as though they had been located higher up the valley side. In 1851 two crouched skeletons were located during the construction of 2 cottages (Now Rose Cottage). More were located in the garden. Further to the North, within the grounds of St Ambro's Villa more burials located, one in a slate coffin, 2 possible cist burials. During the construction of an extensions on the north side of St Ambro's at least 2 cist burials were located. It is uncertain whether all theses can be attributed to the cemetery at Crantock (See SW 76 SE 16). The burials located on the valley slope are characteristic of the Iron Age. Those along Beach Road may be part of Crantock cemetery, another factor which cannot be discounted is the traditions of plague burials in Crantock. Plague burials were brought to be buried within the sands at Crantock and at Cubert, because of its disinfectant, there was a tax on the roads for it. These can also be supported by the frequency, layout and location of the Beach Road burials. (3) |