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St Dunstan's Devil Tongs

Mayfield Convent, Mayfield, East Sussex Legend Medieval

Mayfield Convent in Sussex holds a rather unusual piece of paranormal history - a pair of tongs said to have been used by St Dunstan to grab the Devil by the nose. According to legend, the fallen angel was disguising himself as a woman, but St Dunstan was not fooled, noticing the cloven feet. He quickly grabbed the Devil with his trusty tongs, causing the evil spirit to flee to the springs at Tunbridge Wells. This bizarre encounter has been a part of local folklore for centuries, and the tongs are still on display at the convent.

The story of St Dunstan and the Devil dates back to the 10th century, when St Dunstan was Archbishop of Canterbury. He was known for his piety and bravery, and this encounter with the Devil is just one of many stories told about his life. The tongs themselves are a fascinating piece of history, and it's no surprise that they're still on display at Mayfield Convent. While there's no concrete evidence to prove the legend, it's clear that this story has had a lasting impact on the local community. The convent, now a popular tourist destination, offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history and paranormal heritage.

Historical Context

10th century, during the reign of King Edgar the Peaceful

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Convent
Activity Types
Visual Audio
Witness Credibility
Legend has it
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Still present
Postcode Area
TN20

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