Does anyone have a family link with Ruth PEARCE? I believe that there is a monument in her memory in the market place of Devizes. My Grandmother, now in her 90s, has always insisted that our family has a link with her, but I have yet to establish it. Any information much appreciated. Kate in sunny Devon, UK

Kate Yes, there is a monument, but you may not necessarily wish to be associated as she was 'struck dead for telling a lie'. Ruth, spelt PIERCE in this instance, was from Potterne, attending the market with a group of other villagers and she agreed to put a sum of money towards buying a sack of corn between them When the money was all handed over, she falsely claimed to have added hers to the amount. 'Let me drop dead if I tell a lie', she proclaimed. As she duly fell dead on the spot, the money was found clenched in her hand. Cynthia Stiles http://about-bristol.co.uk (On-line photo tours of Bristol) http://bristolinformation.co.uk (Aspects of Bristol history and genealogy) http://stiles-genealogy.co.uk (Stiles, Wyatt, Evans)