CAN you guess where this week’s Mystery Photograph was taken?

Each week, the Journal invites readers to test their local knowledge by identifying a historic location from days gone by.

Last week’s Mystery Photograph was taken at St Mary Magdalene Church in Writhlington.

Congratulations to Anthony Young who got that correct, he said: “This week’s competition is St Mary Magdalene Church, Church Hill Lower Writhlington, I lived in the Old Rectory opposite the church until 1968.”

St Mary Magdalene Church is a parish church serving the community of Writhlington. Built in the 19th century, it features traditional stone architecture and stands as a familiar landmark in the village.

The church remains active, hosting regular services, community events, and celebrations throughout the year. Its churchyard and surrounding grounds provide a quiet space for reflection and local heritage.

Its architecture reflects the Gothic Revival style typical of the period, with a distinctive stone tower and stained-glass windows. Inside, the church provides a peaceful space for worship and community gatherings, continuing to serve as a hub for local residents.

Over the years, it has hosted services, weddings, and memorials, as well as seasonal events that bring together people from across the parish.

Historically, the area was closely tied to the Somerset coalfield, with mining once being a major source of local employment.

Evidence of this industrial past remains part of the area’s identity, reflected in its landscape and local heritage. Since the decline of mining, Writhlington has evolved into a largely residential community, with housing developments blending alongside open countryside.

The village is home to Writhlington School, a large secondary school with a national reputation for its orchid project, which has achieved international recognition.

Community life in Writhlington centres around local amenities, green spaces, and long-standing landmarks such as St Mary Magdalene Church. With its close proximity to Radstock and Midsomer Norton, Writhlington benefits from both its village atmosphere and access to wider facilities, maintaining a balance between its historical roots and modern development.