| Bowerman's Nose | |
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On the northern slopes of Hayne Down, about a mile from
Houndtor, is a strange rock idol called Bowerman’s Nose, an enormous human-like shaped granite stack. It is a natural formation but at one time it was believed to be man-made or, more accurately, magically formed for, according to ancient tradition, this pile of rock was actually a brave, but foolish giant called Bowerman. Bowerman was another hunter who scoured the moors with his powerful pack of ferocious hounds. Although a strong man he was a genial, cheerful chap and was much loved by the moorland community. However, in the days when he lived the local witch population was large and very active in their dark pursuits. One day a fateful confrontation occurred between the witches and Bowerman. Hot in pursuit of his quarry, Bowerman drove his pack through a coven of witches who were so outraged at the disruption he caused that they decided to wreak their revenge. Even Bowerman, so mighty and powerful, did not have the wit, guile or strength to avoid the ambush that the wicked witches set to ensnare him. One of the old hags turned herself into a hare and set off across the moors. She went over hill and dale pursued by the rapidly tiring hounds and hunter until, just as Bowerman thought that he had cornered the hare, he rode headlong into a trap. With venomous intent the witches heaped a combined spell onto him turning both him and his pack to stone. The great rock of Bowerman’s Nose is said to be the giant himself, and the boulders strewn across the hillside are his hounds – all petrified for eternity. |