Well-dressing raises funds for the Abbey . A team of men from Tideswell , Derbyshire , have assisted the Westminster Abbey appeal for funds by erecting a well-dressing in Deans Yard . Well-dressing , a centuries old religious custom , is the art of building a picture in a half-inch layer of clay , the life of which is about a week. Photo shows ; Conducting a service at the well-dressing in Deans Yard , Westminster , this morning is Dr Adam Fox , Archdeacon of the Abbey and Treasurer of the Appeal Fund . 24 August 1953