Step into Oswestry’s past for free
A series of events to bring Oswestry’s history to life will take place from 8 to 11 September 2011, following last year’s successful historic open days.
The Oswestry Heritage Forum has planned the activities to bring people into closer contact with their rich past, with funding support from Shropshire Council’s Local Joint Committees.
Organisers say the events will be a once-in-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities.
A large number of local organisations will be taking part, including Llanymynech Heritage Area, Tanat Valley Railway and Nantmawr Visitor Centre, Cambrian Museum, Oswestry Station, Llynclys Station, Park Hall Farm, Whittington Castle, Oswestry Library and Oswestry Hillfort.
Events will include railway rides, talks by local historians and costumed guides, archive film footage, storytelling for children, lime demonstrations and much more.
Oswestry’s Guildhall, home of the town council, will be hosting a number of displays and interest cabinets on the Saturday (10 September 2011) and Sunday (11 September 2011).
At the same time, minibus tours will be running from the Guildhall so people can reach other open sites around the area. Both minibus trips and entrance to the attractions will be free.
Councillor Martin Bennett, chair of the Oswestry Local Joint Committee, said:
“The message from last year’s event was loud and clear – people wanted to see the event take place again, and I am pleased that Oswestry and other Local Joint Committees have been able to fund another four days of activity.
“As someone who has studied the history of Oswestry, and was responsible for setting up our own archives, I have long been fascinated by the depth and breadth of our local heritage, most of which we take for granted on a daily basis. I urge everyone to take a good look at the programme – there is something for all – and come along to find out more and to support the events and the venues.
“On the economic front, this is another example of the local community pulling together to ‘speak out’ for Oswestry and the area. We believe the project is an important part in our strategy to develop Oswestry as a tourist destination and maintain its place within Shropshire, the Marches and the West Midlands. We are sure this project will raise the profile of our local attractions and add value to other local events and festivals organised in and around the town.”
The full four day programme can be viewed at the Oswestry Museum website and by clicking this link. If you would like to talk to someone about being involved in future events, or for information about this year’s events, please contact Corrie Davies, Shropshire Council’s community action officer, on 01691 677306.
