These evocative old photos show the village of Bradpole from 1922 onwards.

Bradpole was once a farming village surrounded by typical Dorset countryside and was expanded in the 20th century.

They were taken by Bridport photographer Claud Hider and depict some glorious pastoral scenes and life in the village streets.

Picture: Claud Hider

In one you can see a delivery cart and bicycle which has been flung down on the ground as though its rider was in a hurry.

Further out of the village you can see green fields and the stunning views that some residents would enjoy from their homes.

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In the 12th/13th centuries Bradpole was centred around a manor house and church.

Scenic views across BradpoleScenic views across Bradpole

The church of the Holy Trinity is in the early English style and consists of a chancel, nave, north aisle, tower & spire

The manor house was built by members of a French Norman family named the de Morevilles who came from the Caen area of Normandy and had connections with the 11th century Abbaye de Montebourg which exists today as an Agricultural College.

Bridge with a field beyond Picture: Claud HiderBridge with a field beyond Picture: Claud Hider

The manor at one time was in the ownership of Catherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII.

In 1911 Bradpole held a pageant to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Catherine Parr, who owned the manor and lands following her subsequent marriage to Thomas Seymour 1st Baron of Sudeley.

Catherine Parr, sixth and last wife of Henry VIII owned Bradpole ManorCatherine Parr, sixth and last wife of Henry VIII owned Bradpole Manor

A notable son of Bradpole was the politician W.E. Forster (1818-1886).

In 1861 he was elected MP for Bradford and entered government in 1865.

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He was responsible for carrying the Education Act of 1870 through the House of Commons and was committed to universal education.

The Forster Memorial Institute, was built in 1889 by public subscription.

Thanks to Neil Mattingly for sharing these Claud Hider photos and to the excellent Dorset OPC and Bradpole parish websites for further information.