he chose the site of a ruined building, probably of monastic origin and, using some of the structure and stone from the ruin, he built the manor house which is now known as Aston Bury. During World War II, Aston House, opposite the church, was occupied by the Special Operations Executive, engaged in the design, testing and production of explosives and secret weapons for use in sabotage operations and guerrilla warfare. Afterwards occupied by the Stevenage Development Corporation it was subsequently demolished in the 1950s. Parish church The parish church of St Mary the Virgin is a Grade II* listed building. It was rebuilt about 1230. One detail surviving from that period is the double headed piscina in the south wall of the chancel. The tower was added between 1390 and 1420 and the north aisle and vestry about 1856. The building has undergone many changes to its structure through the passing centuries. A serious fire gutted the tower in 1958 destroying the remaining 15th century stained glass and the ancient bells. The Lych gate was erected to the memory of Rev. George Oddie. His father was also a Rector at Aston. Gregor House and the Dene were their respective rectories. References External links Aston (A Guide to Old Hertfordshire) Aston (A Guide to Old Hertfordshire) Villages in Hertfordshire Civil parishes in Hertfordshire Hertfordshire articles needing maps East Hertfordshire District