The Maskelynes were involved in Purton life for more than four centuries from the 16th century .
The Reverend Dr Nevil Maskelyne ( 1732 -- 1811 ) was appointed Astronomer Royal in 1765 .
The Dr were involved in Purton life for more than four centuries from the 16th century .
The Reverend Dr Nevil Maskelyne ( 1732 -- 1811 ) was appointed Astronomer Royal in 1765 .