December 2015 - Zennor church is famous for a carved medieval chair, or bench end, displayed in the south side chapel. The carving is generally dated to between 1400-1500. The carving shows a mermaid carrying a comb and mirror. The Mermaid Legend - A local squire's son named Matthew Trewhella was a member of the church choir, and was known for his pure singing voice. A mermaid named Morveren, hearing his song, came into the church to listen. She was smitten by Matthew and lured the chorister into the sea at nearby Pendour Cove. You can guess the next bit; he never returned, and on warm summer evenings it is said that their voices can be heard joined in song, emanating from beneath the waves. Did the legend inspire the mermaid chair carving, or did the carving give rise to the legend?
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