Tatworth is a large village, consisting of a number of smaller villages including South Chard, Perry Street and Chard Junction which are close together. The hamlet of Forton lies to the north, towards Chard.
History
A white liaslimestoneRomantessera measuring 25.7 millimetres (1.01 in) x 20.18 millimetres (0.79 in) x 17.75 millimetres (0.70 in) and regularly cut on two faces was found in the area,[2] and may be connected with the remains of a Roman villa or farmhouse by St Margaret's Lane. Part of this building was excavated in 1967 and pottery and paving found there are displayed in the Chard Museum.[3]
The name of the village comes from the Old Englishtat and worp meaning 'A cheerful farm'.[4] In 1254, the spelling was Tattewurthe and was a sub-manor of Chard.[5] In 1554 Thatteworh was granted to William Petre as the 'manor and park of Tatworthy' and remained in the family until 1790. Tatworth in the 1850s extended to 1,552 acres (6.28 km2) and had a population of 852.[5]
Governance
The parish council has responsibility for local issues, including setting an annual precept (local rate) to cover the council’s operating costs and producing annual accounts for public scrutiny. The parish council evaluates local planning applications and works with the local police, district council officers, and neighbourhood watch groups on matters of crime, security, and traffic. The parish council's role also includes initiating projects for the maintenance and repair of parish facilities, as well as consulting with the district council on the maintenance, repair, and improvement of highways, drainage, footpaths, public transport, and street cleaning. Conservation matters (including trees and listed buildings) and environmental issues are also the responsibility of the council.
The parish was known as Chard parish (distinct from the town of Chard) until 1985 when boundary changes were made, and it was reduced in size.[6]
Tatworth has a primary school,[10] two pubs – Ye Olde Poppe Inn and the Golden Fleece – and the Perry Street Club, a members-only club. It also has a McColl's shop which is also a post office.
Tatworth has a number of local sports clubs. The Perry Street & District Football League was formed in Tatworth in 1903 by Charles Edward Small, the owner of the Perry Street Lace Works.[11] Perry Street Football Club still play in the league today. There is also a cricket club and local skittles league based at Perry Street Club.[12]