Cleo at the Great North Door

The moon, a thin crescent, lit from within.
To the Eastward, The Plough, bright in deep space
And now here, the White Hart, whose yellow lights
Resemble a cruise liner out at sea.
Our White Hart, his slim neck collared with gold,
Badge of some noble line I do not know,
Glistening in the night, his status supreme
In his niche above the Prior's Courtroom,
So long ago, those days, when he was fixed.
The Hart watches us unblinking, head up,
Gold coronet, rich necklace, staring out.
Only our tall angel above our heads
Has some of his power, empty eye sockets
Looking over us all, into our eyes.
Her fierce face deflecting questions. Just look,
She says, look at my face and the White Hart,
Symbols of then and now, calling us all,
Requiring our attention and our love.
17th December 2006
By Richard Maslen (click to go back).
(White Hart with gold coronet: Badge of King Richard the Second, Blythburgh Suffolk)
Some Favourite Websites For April 2025:
Cranbourne, Walberswick – Luxury Self Catering cottage on the Heritage Coast with it's own swimming pool
Cranbourne is tucked in a peaceful corner of Manor Close with the excellent village shop nearby and central to Walberswick making all the attractions within easy walking. A heated outdoor swimming pool for summer use is protected by a lockable gate. Without detracting from the house in any way, Cranbourne unobtrusively includes features enabling less mobile visitors to equally enjoy their stay.
Southwold Beach Hut Owners Association – The online home of the owners of Southwold's iconic beach huts
On this website are details of the Southwold Beach Hut Owners Association group as well as the latest news and information for prospective, new and existing members, owning a tiny slice of our wonderful Suffolk coastline.
Cecil Amey Opticians – An Opticians in Halesworth for over 100 years
Cecil Amey Opticians pride themselves on providing expert, professional eye care and hearing care, you're able to contact their Halesworth branch for advice or to make an appointment.
Rosedale Funeral Home – Providing the very best of bereavement care
A family owned local Funeral Home, offering a professional, competitively priced, 24 hour service. Experienced in all aspects of bereavement, whether it is discussing wishes in advance, arranging a funeral at the time of need or providing the very best bereavement support.
Southwold Model Yacht Regattas – Boating down on Southwold sea front
The Southwold Regattas are held every year on the boating lake by the pier. Events are open to all and new sailors and spectators are very welcome however new sailors should contact the committee before turning up to the event.