What is Dobbin Day?
Dobbin Day is a Wanborough tradition which commemorates the life and bequest of William Stanley, who died in 1745
William left money to be used to give bread to the poor and needy of the village.
At the end of the service bread is handed out to the children and to other parishioners who attend.
'Dobbin' is an old Wiltshire word for a loaf of bread.
How do we celebrate?
To continue the tradition, each year Acorn Class (reception) and Oak Class (year 6) go to St Andrew's Church for a special service. Parishioners are also welcome to join us for the service. The service is held close to the anniversary of William Stanley's death.
In 2024 the service was on Tuesday 20th February.
Year 6 pupils read prayers, the Bible story of the 'Feeding of the 5000' and the William Stanley's life.
During the service the 'Dobbin' loaves were distributed.
This year the service included the children singing a special song, 'Do the Dough', with actions showing how bread is made!
We were pleased to welcome a number of parents and family members to the service as well as a group of parishioners.
Text of plaque in modern English:
Erected to the memory of the Honourable William Stanley Esquire
Gentleman of the Privy Chamber to George the 2nd
Deputy Lieutenant and Justice of the Peace for this county;
who died on the 13th February 1745,
in the 70th year of his age.
And by his last will gave £50,
the interest whereof for the use of this Parish for ever.
Thus 10 shillings yearly for a Funeral sermon
on the Sunday after the 19th of February,
20 shillings more to 20 poor families
of this parish who do not receive alms,
and such as attend the service of Church on Sundays,
(1 shilling to each family)
The remainder in bread in 3 penny loaves
at the same time when Service is ended;
by the direction of the minister, churchwarden
and overseers of the poor of Wanborough for ever.
