The career of Reverend Richard Richards (1718-1774) shows to some extent, the degree of patronage enjoyed by Parish Clergy in the 18th century. The only son of a Malster, Robert Richards, alias Mason of Beaminster he proceeded to Pembroke College, Oxford in 1736 and became Rector of Burton Bradstock in 1746 which living he held until his death. His last entry in the register is in 1766. In 1768 he was left some 200 acres at Carhampton, Hants by one William Horner and by his own will was able to leave his surviving son and daughter over £8000 after settlement of the mortgage he had taken out and the distribution suggests that provision had already been made for the two elder sons.