The Sign

This simple sign was given to the village by Mr and Mrs Sewell in memory of Mr and Mrs Freeman, the parents of Mrs Sewell, who lived in the village most of their life. It is located outside the village Hall. The animal with two tails could be a horse or a dog! “The Westhall Beast”; it has been described as, but nobody is quite sure what it is. It was found as part of a 2nd century hoard, discovered in 1855, when the railway was being constructed in Millpost Field whilst being drained. It became known as the Westhall Hoard, and “the beast” was depicted on a brooch which was part of the hoard. It is held at the British Museum, London. It is said to be from the Iron Age and possibly the site of a previous settlement. It was carved by Mr Sewell for the sign.

The Name and Population
The village was called Westhala in 1169 and Westhale in 1212. It means 'The western hollow or nook of land', taken from Old English. Possibly named in relation to Uggeshall village close by. In 2005 the population was 390.

Other Points of Interest

The church of St Andrew is about two miles from the village, but is well worth a visit for its Seven Sacrament Font and other internal features, including a Norman west doorway.