Commemoration of Malmesbury Witch Trials in 1672

In 1672 fourteen people were accused of witchcraft in Malmesbury. Four were sent for trial in Salisbury with two being found guilty and hanged. 

To mark this lesser-known period of the town's history, a programme of events has taken place in recent months including guided walks, film screenings, and talks from historians.

This culminated with a 'living history' weekend organised by Malmesbury Town Team alongside other community groups, local businesses and dozens of volunteers.

Although Sunday's events were cancelled as a result of the extreme temperature, on Saturday visitors were able to enjoy everything from street theatre to a cooling spell in the stocks.

Project leader of Malmesbury Witch Trial 350, Campbell Ritchie, said: "Our live programme on Saturday was a great way to round off a series of events raising interest and knowledge about this important but little-known part of our local history. 

"Hats to all our performers, content creators, C17th century demonstrators, caterers and support team for putting on such a brilliant show. I am sure it will last in the memory. 

"Who will forget the meeting of Goody Orchard and 10-year-old Mary Bartholomew that was to change so many lives? 

"We have also created engaging material that will be available into the future in our Explore Malmesbury multi-media trail, the original pamphlet 'The Malmesbury Witch Trial of 1672' and our three short films.

"On Saturday evening we were able to celebrate the launch of local historian Tony McAleavy's major new book 'The Last Witch Craze'. A central theme of the book describes the belief in witchcraft in Malmesbury which lasted for generations and had so many tragic consequences.

"Discovering the story of the Malmesbury Witch Trial of 1672 is another reason to visit and spend time in Malmesbury."