Another story about hospitality to finish the season. Re-reading an old email reminded me that I was going to write a blog about this pub, or rather its sign: The Gate. I used to cycle this way when I was at college, and one more time about ten years ago to visit two friends who were unwell.
There is a verse that accompanies the sign of the Gate; there are various versions around the country:
This Gate hangs high and hinders none, Refreshment take and then jog on.
Did I ever stop there for a drink? I don’t remember but I’m glad to say the place has not been converted into flats!
Gates were set across roads in 19th Century England to collect toll charges – money to pay for construction, upkeep and improvement of the highway. If people had to stop anyway, the pub would hope to invite them in to ‘refreshment take and then jog on’. There is another story, told by Jesus:
I am the door. By me, if any man enter in, he shall be saved: and he shall go in, and go out, and shall find pastures. John 10.9
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