From the reign of Charles II till 1772 Heytesbury was completely controlled by the Ashe family and their successors the A’Courts, who owned most of the burgages and as lords of the manor appointed the returning officer. The seats were held by successive owners of the borough, Edward Ashe (for 52 years), William Ashe and Pierce A’Court Ashe; the other was usually given to close relatives. Except in 1722, when there was a negligible opposition, all Members were returned unopposed. All the Members were government supporters.
Volume
Right of election
in burgage holders
Background Information
Number of voters: 26
Constituency Type
Constituency ID