A gently sloping bowl known as the Dell was a popular setting for wrestling matches and other sporting events, especially in the 18th century.
Daniel Mendoza came to the Dell to defend his heavyweight title in 1795. Mendoza was the 16th heavyweight champion of the old prize ring and had defeated dozens of opponents before this fight. The fight was won by Mendoza’s opponent, 'Gentleman' John Jackson. Jackson won in nine rounds, securing victory by seizing Mendoza by his long hair and holding him with one hand while he pounded his head with the other. Mendoza was pummelled into submission in around ten minutes. Since this date boxers have worn their hair short.
The Dell lay to the south-west of the church in the Mill Field, which was possibly the site of the monastery and is now a recreation ground.
Hornchurch, The Dell 1909 (via Francis Frith):
I will always have fond memories of the Dell as our scout hut was located there. Also I lived a few minutes walk away at Ravenscourt Grove. I moved there in 1948. The Dell was a boy's dream place to play in.