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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Cinque Ports
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(pronounced 'sink ports') Group of five (cinque in old French) ports on the south coast of England which in the 11–14C had a joint responsibility to provide a royal fleet for the defence of the realm. The original five were Hastings, New Romney, Hythe, Dover and Sandwich; after the Norman Conquest two further towns, Winchelsea and Rye, were added. The group retained a ceremonial identity long after their practical function had ended. Their chief officer, the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, is also the constable of Dover Castle and has an official residence in Walmer Castle.
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