The commissioning of a new landmark within Littleton Parish is the result of much indirect debate involving members of the parish council and those it represents over many years. It's fair to say however that the profile of this issue was raised significantly by the publication of "Littleton - A Brief History" in 1999. Through this document local resident Peter H McCready, with the support of the parish council, brought together the research undertaken by the late George Good and himself to reveal a wide range of activities, happenings, archaeological and architectural facts unique to the parish. Not too long after, the millennium celebrations were upon all public groups who felt obliged to celebrate their existence in some way or another and Littleton Parish Council was no exception. Council members agreed that something that referenced Littleton's heritage but also supported and encouraged future aspirations and a sense of community would constitute a worthy landmark. Ultimately an iconic cross, sporting a range of Celtic symbols was agreed upon and Grosvenor Stone were commissioned to make the object illustrated.
This full scale cast is in ordinary cement but the finished object will be cast in reconstituted red sandstone. The proposed site is at the junction of the A51 and Hare Lane, opposite Barn House Veterinary Surgery. The original stone "Vicar's Cross" stood by the road a short distance to the the East of this and was demolished by Puritans in 1613. It is hoped that the new cross can be erected later in 2005.
Below is a brief description of Celtic symbols used in the design of the cross and their meaning.
The Celtic spiral in its purest and simplest form symbolizes eternity, continuity, and the never endingness of life. Created and passed down by early generations of Celtic peoples in Europe, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, the Celtic spiral can be traced back to 2500 BCE.
The Celtic four. A symbol of good fortune, the four distinctive interlocking circles of this design also stand for the season. The double lines around the edge symbolize friendship or love between people who are separate yet together.
Ousel (Usually spelled Ouzel in the United States.) This water bird is known for its tenacious and deceptive personality. While it looks harmless enough, it is revered for its ability to staunchly defend itself and its flock. In myth, the Ousel of Cilgwri once picked a smith's hammer down to the size of a small nut.