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12 June 2026Old Bromyard – Journal 2012 no 35Judith has been busy looking through old copies of the Bromyard News and Record for 1959. She found a series of ‘Recollections of Old Bromyard’ , contributed by a reader who found them, written by W. Madders, describing aspects of Bromyard ‘about seventy years ago’. That would have been in the late 1800s. Some of them are reproduced in this Journal, on pages 7, 11, 26 and 38. More recollections of Bromyard—Spital TreesTaken from articles written by the late W.Madders.When I was a boy there used to be at Flaggoners Green a spital tree works. I have looked in Chambers dictionary for a definition of what a spital tree is but have failed to find it. It is a local word for a spade or fork handle. Because they used to be made there.A Mr. Evans was the proprietor, and after his death his nephew, Mr.T.Hinksman, carried it on for a good many years. He was my Sunday School teacher when I attended Wesleyans (the school was then held in a large room belonging to Mr.Jenks, Tanner, in Pump Street).Several men were employed at Flaggoners Green, sawyers, turners and others, the trunks (ash I believe) were brought by teams of horses from the neighbourhood, and were cut up by manual labour. A pit was made, and one sawyer stood upon the trunk and one below on the pit, one pulled the saw down and the other pushed it up. The top sawyer was the better man and undoubtedly gave rise to the sporting term “He be a top sawyer”. I used to watch the men at work and noticed that the rough handles were placed in very hot water, and then bent to the proper shape, sometimes they broke or split, when they were thrown out to augment the slabs which were sold for firewood, and were eagerly sought for that purpose. It was a great pity that both this factory as well as the Tannery should have to be closed, as they furnished work for about thirty men between them. Rouse Bros. (George and Edward “Ted”) with their father also used to employ a good many men.There used to be a Brickyard in the New Road (where the School Cookery Canteen now is) and I well remember seeing the children running with the wet clay in wooden moulds from the brickmakers and placing them in long rows to dry in the sun, preparatory to their being burnt in the kilns.The late Mr. D. McIntosh, the draper and outfitter, also started a clothing factory in the New Road and employed about twenty hands (this factory has just been taken down and is now the petrol pumps at the bottom of the road).Passing now to another subject, that brought to remembrance Stage and Mail Coach days. Not that I remember these. But there used to live in the High Street, next door but two to the N. P. Bank, an old gentleman, Mr. T. Godwin, “Tammy” Godwin for short.I understood that he had been a stage coach driver between Bromyard, Worcester and Hereford. He was a big old gentleman, and used to wear a long gold chain round his neck, which descended across his portly body. He used to come and talk with the lateMr. T. W.Williams when I was apprenticed there.I once rode to Worcester in an old coach (a two horse) from the Hop Pole. I wonder what became of it. It would be most interesting to see.(re-typed by Judith Evans from the Bromyard News & Record, 24th September 1959.) Old Bromyard- Mop FairsSome recollections of Bromyard Mr Roper of Linceter at the market with sheep c1930 There was no Bromyard Smithfield in my schooldays, but a public market the sheep and pigs being penned in Sheep Street, and I have seen the pens filled from Milvern Lane corner up to Billy Mitchell’s house, which was just past Taylor’s orchard. The cattle stood right from Milvern Lane and down High Street as far as the New Road corner and then up the hill as far as the house just below Hillcrest.It was said that a farmer named Philpott of the Brook House, Avenbury, had as many as a thousand sheep at Bromyard fair at one time. The pens, as they were called, were kept at Sally Green’s, the name by which she was known, and were erected in the early morning. They were supported by posts driven into the ground and the pens were tied by string to these and to other pens. I know the boys used to plague the sheep, and try to make them jump over the hurdles,which when they did, there were shouts of delight, and chasing, to bring them back. These fairs were held about three or four times a year, there being no fortnightly sales. Hiring fairs or “Mops” as they were called, were held two or three times a year, when farm hands would come to meet would-be employers to whom they offered their services. (You will please remember I was only a boy of between six and twelve years but I used to ask questions of my father and mother and having a fairly retentive memory I almost imperceptibly observed and retained the informationwhich is now to me so interesting).I remember seeing one man with a whip in hand which showed he offered himself as a waggoner. At these Mops there used to assemble men with punching machines, and the way in which these amateur “Tom Springs” went for the image was almost alarming to me. Men singing songs and selling the sheets containing the words of the songs, such as “They are going to tax the fleas?” and other sentiments of a rather doubtful character. Market Day – outside the Falcon Hotel, undated The Mops were held in the Market Square and Broad Street, not in High Street, and any further than Mr.Grubb’s ironmongers shop (which was then opposite Ross’s Boot shop). There were stalls for the sale of nuts, oranges and gingerbreads; also shooting galleries in the Square, where you shot through a long tube at a bell at the further end, if you made a bull’s eye it rang a bell. There were also stalls where you had a gun, one shot a penny at a revolving wheel whereupon was printed on the rim figures one to twelve; whatever number you hit you had the number of nuts; I had twelve once.A constant attendant at these Mops was an old besom seller named Both who lived on the Downs. He wore a smock frock and used to bring a sort of gaming table on which was a blank and on three other places home made Banbury cakes. I believe one, two and three. You put your money and spun a pointer on a swivel, and on whatever pile it stopped you had that prize. Sometimes you had a blank. Just when the bicycle was placed on the market there came into the Square a fresh attraction to the ordinary roundabout. This was a collection of machines with pedals attached to each other, and when mounted and the riders pedalled they all went round together on a metal track. I remember seeing a lot of young men going round once and the attendants had to expend considerable time and trouble in acting as brakes to overcome the young men’s energy, to bringthe machines to a standstill. The sympathy of the spectators was, of course, with the ardent racers. Writing of bicycles reminds me that I saw at Broadwas, when I was very young, a two wooden wheels bicycle which my Uncle George had made. It was about the height of the ordinary safety one now in use. But it had no pedals. It was propelled by the rider sitting astride andusing his legs alternately along the ground. Of course, it was of no use whatever up hill, but he could get along by this method at the rate of eight miles an hour – so he said. I know I was very interested in it. How I practised on an old boneshaker weighing ninety pounds I will tell another time.(re-typed by Judith Evans from the Bromyard News & Record of 3rd September Record of 3rd September 1959.) NB: Images from our archive were added for this post for interest. […] Read more…
12 June 2026On Wednesday 10th June the Society visited Forge Mill Needle Museum in Redditch. The museum illustrates the rich heritage of the needle and fishing tackle industries. Needle making has been recorded in the area as early as the 1639. The building was originally an iron forge, but was converted into a scouring mill for needle production in 1730. The mill became steam powered in 1870. The mill closed in 1958. At its peak in the 1870s, the area was producing around 3.5 billion needles per year, around 90% of the world’s needle production. Forge Mill reopened as a museum, with Queen Elizabeth 11 visiting for the opening ceremony on 5 July 1983.  A short walk from the Museum, were the ruins of Bordesley Abbey – a medieval Cistercian Abbey which has been extensively excavated. The Visitor Centre is set in an original reconstructed 16th century barn and tells the extraordinary story of the Abbey from it’s development in the 12th century to it’s destruction in 1538 by Henry the Vlll during the dissolution. A lovely day was had by all, even the odd shower didn’t ruin our enjoyment of this fascinating place. […] Read more…
29 May 2026Our next exhibition is “Women of Note in Bromyard and District ” and will be opened by Mrs Marianne Boddington. The launch is taking place on Saturday 13th June at the Local & Family History Centre, Sherford Street with a Coffee Morning at 11am When you think of the phrase ‘Women of Note’ your mind might automatically conjure up images of a certain celebrity, a noted author or a historical figure. However, the idea of a ‘woman of note’ is much wider than that. Culturally the phrase is used to describe women who may have made their mark on the world in some way, but that doesn’t have to be through creating change or achieving celebrity. Arguably a ‘Woman of Note’ is any woman who is memorable or inspiring in some way and Bromyard has had more than its fair share of those ladies! […] Read more…
17 May 2026On the morning of Saturday 16th May members and representatives of Food for All, Bromyard and District Local History Society and Bromyard Tourist Information Centre gathered with the Mayor and Mayoress of Bromyard at 10-12 High Street in anticipation of the opening of ‘Binyon’s of Bromyard’. Tea. coffee, fizz,  homemade cake and biscuits were enjoyed while chatting before the opening ceremony. Prayers led by Fr Paul Stonham, were followed by words from Robert Hollis of Food for All and Mandy Palmer of BDLHS welcoming the new partnership and looking forward to working successfully together.  Outside, to applause (and the bemusement of passing drivers),  Susanna Lady McFarlane unveiled the new Binyon’s of Bromyard shop window  – the start of an exciting new chapter for all three organisations.   […] Read more…
7 May 2026We are delighted to invite you to the opening of “Binyon’s of Bromyard”. Come celebrate our new space, meet the team, and enjoy a reception at 11am followed by the opening at 12 noon by our Patron Susanna Lady McFarlane on Saturday 16th May at 12 Broad Street Bromyard. […] Read more…
2 May 2026We were very lucky with the weather so everyone enjoyed tea and cake in the garden where the tulips were still looking good. Also a spot of plant inspection and discussion and chance to look at documentation about Lower House and Thornbury displayed in the dining room. […] Read more…
9 March 2026We are delighted to announce that our shop, History on Broad St, is on the verge of a new adventure. We are entering into a collaboration with the shop currently known as Food For All at No. 12 High Street, under the integrated new name of Binyons of Bromyard. HOBS will close on 25th April, 2026 and the opening of the new enterprise will be on Saturday, 2nd May, 2026. Soon to be renamed ‘Binyons of Bromyard’ […] Read more…
1 March 2026by novelist Caroline Willcocks Four talks on the Tudor Queens from 2pm to 4 pm, at Bromyard and District Local History Centre on October 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th.Booking essential as we have limited places. Each talk is standalone but can also be booked as a course of four for the price of three via the Conquest Theatre booking system. Bookings can also be made in person at the theatre on Saturday and Wednesday mornings between 10.30am and 12.30pm. What was life really like for Henry VIII’s six wives? Caroline Willcocks, who has researched and written four successful novels on the Tudor Queens, talks about their lives and loves. Was Katherine of Aragon a liar? Was Anne Boleyn a schemer? Did Anne of Cleves smell? Over four talks she discusses these women and the legacy they have left. Caroline has lived in Bromyard for the last six years, with her husband the poet John Pare, a dog and a cat. She has worked in the theatre, freelance journalism and for charities before writing six novels (so far). Her work examines human emotions in a historical context and celebrates the passion and danger of the Tudor court. Katherine of Aragon: Beyond the StereotypesUnveiling the True Character of Henry the Eighth’s First Tudor Queen  Explore the extraordinary life of Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII. Too often dismissed as dowdy and overly pious, Katherine’s true legacy is far richer and more nuanced. Was she merely a devout and plain figure, or did her intelligence, political acumen, and  beauty shape the course of English history? Discover how Katherine navigated the treacherous world of Tudor politics, championed scholarship for women, and inspired devotion and respect across Europe. This session will challenge prevailing myths and invite you to see Katherine not as a passive victim, but as a clever, resilient, and charismatic queen whose influence is celebrated to this day. Accompanying novel ‘Of Aragon’ by Caroline Willcocks. The Enigma of Anne BoleynUnprincipled Schemer or Protestant and Feminist Martyr? Join us for a thought-provoking talk exploring the life and legacy of Anne Boleyn. one of the most fascinating figures in British history, she has achieved the status of an icon. Was she simply an ambitious manipulator, ruthlessly pursuing power at court, or does her story reveal a courageous woman who championed Protestant reform and aid for early foundations? This session will delve into the intrigue of Henry VIII’s court, Anne’s pivotal role in England’s religious transformation, and the myths and truths that have shaped her reputation over the centuries. Discover how Anne Boleyn’s brief but impactful life continues to inspire debate: was she an unprincipled schemer, or a martyr for her faith and for women’s agency? The session will also look at Jane Seymour, the only queen to give Henry VIII a son. Accompanying novel ‘The Duty of Women’  by Caroline Willcocks. A Tale of Two Queens: Anne of Cleves & Katherine HowardHistory, Inexperience, and the Ghosts of Henry VIII’s Wives Enjoy this engaging talk exploring the lives and legacies of Anne of Cleves and Katherine Howard, two of Henry VIII’s most enigmatic wives. We’ll delve into how their relative inexperience shaped their time at court, examining the unique challenges they faced in navigating the treacherous waters of Tudor politics and royal expectations. In the second half, prepare for a lighter—and spookier—journey as we uncover the ghostly legends surrounding Henry’s wives. From phantom footsteps in haunted halls to spectral encounters that have captured imaginations for centuries, discover how these women’s stories continue to linger long after their reigns ended. It’s history with a supernatural twist! Accompanying novel ‘Girl Queens’. Katherine Parr: Scholar, Survivor, and QueenA Talk Exploring the Perilous Path of England’s Last Tudor Queen Discover the remarkable life of Katherine Parr in this absorbing talk, where we delve into the dangerous journey she undertook as Henry VIII’s sixth and final wife. Katherine’s intellect and scholarship not only shaped the religious and cultural landscape of her era, but also offered her unique influence over Henry’s children — Edward, Mary and Elizabeth — helping to nurture and set the course of England’s next three monarchs. Yet, beneath her composed exterior lay the heart of a woman who risked everything for love, culminating in a passionate affair that ultimately led to her tragic demise. Join us for an illuminating exploration of Katherine Parr’s courage, her legacy of learning, and the lasting impact of her relationships within the Tudor court. Accompanying novel ‘The Shadow of the King’. […] Read more…
8 February 2026On Saturday 14th February the Rotherwas Together Exhibition was opened at the Local & Family History Centre by Society Chairman Mandy Palmer. Many visitors arrived for the opening which included the family of Kay (Kathleen) Bloomfield nee Eldridge who worked at Hereford Munitions Factory and Sally and Roger Dickson whose Mother and Aunt also worked there. The exhibition is on until Saturday 23rd May. Opening times areThursdays & Fridays 10am – 4pmSaturdays 10am – 1pm. Rotherwas Together is the Herefordshire-based voluntary organisation dedicated to researching stories and raising awareness of the munitions factory ROF Rotherwas, the Royal Ordnance Factory built during the First World War. The factory was used for filling shells, with the first ones rolling off the production line in November 1916. The munitions site closed after the Second World War and became home to many businesses from the 1960s onwards and is now the Hereford Enterprise Zone. Various smaller exhibitions have been held across Herefordshire and beyond, but an exciting partnership for 2026 sees a new venture where all the Rotherwas exhibitions are brought together in one venue. Working with Bromyard & District Local History Society, the exhibition will be hosted at Bromyard Local History Centre between 14th February and 23rd May 2026. The exhibition includes stories of some of the brave women who worked at the munitions factory during both wars, and how the factory came about in the first place. It explains about the uniforms and protective clothing which was used during the First World War, and how the name ‘canary girls’ given to the women came about. There is also the remarkable story of the Rotherwas women’s football team, who played in front of big crowds during the First World War. Alongside the stories are original artefacts and a recreation of a First World War factory uniform. Information will be available about how to trace your own ancestors who may have worked at Rotherwas, and there will be several talks about the history of the munitions in Herefordshire. […] Read more…
19 October 202526/09/2025 In the past three weeks two test pits have been dug to the south and inline with the main trench. TP1 revealed a flint arrow head (poss ) and medieval pottery.TP2 revealed two shards of medieval  pottery. The whole area has in the post medieval period been built up to form a platform to a height of 60cm above the medieval top soil.A theodolite was used to ascertain the original medieval  ground surface between TP2 and Trench 3. The result was 2.36mtrs . TP1 revealed a large concentration of charcoal which appeared to be sitting on the natural land surface of the medieval level.  A sample of this was collected  with the hope of having it carbon dated at some point in the future.TP2. was backfilled. 10/10/25 TP3  (test pit) was dug out 15 mtrs east  and 3 mtrs north of trench 2.Spit 2 revealed glass and pottery shards 17/18 C.  Charcoal, Clay pipe stem and burnt clay.Spit 3.  17/18 C pottery, charcoal, curved green glass fragment ( bottle )17C.  Daub.  Clay pipe bowl.  Burnt clay. fragment of Staffordshire slipware 17/18 C. A shard of Medieval pottery. Spit 4.  Two pieces of metal with slag.  Three pieces of iron ( poss nails ) unstratified ( found in soil heap ) Test pit 4.Spit 1 ( 6cm depth ). Shard pottery and fine fragment of green glass bottle. 17/18 C.  Charcoal.  Clay pipe fragments.  Building Lime.Spit 2.  13/14 C pottery shard.  Pipe fragment.  Flint fragment. Back […] Read more…
9 October 2025Our Christmas lunch will be held at the Falcon Hotel on Sunday 7th December. See full details below. So that we can confirm numbers to the Falcon would you please book by the 26th of November by emailing membership@bromyardhistorysociety.org.uk or in person at History on Broad St, 01885 498525 We look forward to seeing you. Back […] Read more…
14 September 2025On the 6th of September members of the society ran a pop-up exhibition at Upper Sapey’s WWII event. In particular the organisers thanked Hugh Langishe ‘for his wonderful talk and insight into his experiences of the war – it was a real privilege to be able to hear stories from someone who was actually there‘.   Back […] Read more…
28 August 2025The Bromyard History Society will be visiting the Gloucester History Festival on Friday 12th September. This will be a car sharing visit, leaving the Conquest car park at 8.45am on Friday 12th September. I have attached a copy of this year’s programme to give you an idea of what’s on offer. However, I would recommend that you have a look at their website (see bottom of post for link) for further details. Many of the events have limited numbers, so if there is something that interests you, it is worthwhile booking a place beforehand. If you would be interested in joining us can you please send me an email with names, numbers and details of places you have available in your car or if you would require a lift.          programme@bromyardhistorysociety.org.uk The Heritage Open Days are part of the Gloucester History Festival, which is in its 15th year. The whole event runs from 6th to 21st September, with the Heritage Open Days held from the 12th to 14th September. Heritage Open Days celebrate England’s fantastic historic architecture and culture by offering FREE access to properties which are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year there’s a chance to discover architectural treasures and enjoy FREE access to a wide range of events and activities which bring local history and culture to life. Gloucester is among the top three venues in the country with its huge range of activities during Heritage Open Days with guided tours , music, and cultural activities in the City Centre, at Gloucester Docks and in the city’s suburbs. Heritage Open Days David Grant Programme Secretary Back […] Read more…
22 July 2025Violette Szabo was a secret agent working for the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Violette took on special missions behind enemy lines following the death of her French officer husband at the Battle of El Alamein and because of her bravery was awarded the George Cross (the first woman to receive the award) and the Croix du Guerre. Violette was captured, tortured and executed in 1945 by the Germans, while to honour her memory and that of her husband Etienne Szabo their daughter Tania supports The Violette Szabo Museum that enables people to learn about her parents’ bravery during the war. The museum opened its doors in June 2000 and was the brain child of Rosemary Rigby MBE who was Violette’s aunt. The Museum is located in the grounds of a small house named Cartref where Violette spent many happy childhood days and did indeed stay between her missions to France during the war.  This will be a car sharing trip, leaving the Conquest Car Park at 1.00pm. The tour starts at 3.00pm led by her Aunt, Rosemary Rigby. There is no charge, but donations towards the running of the museum will be gratefully accepted (cash only). If you are interested in this visit can you please email: programme@bromyardhistorysociety.org.uk Should you have spare seats or wish to have a lift can you please include this information in your email. Back […] Read more…
22 July 2025During excavations in 2017 at Rowden Abbey pot shards from the 15th/ 16th century were found on the island at Rowden Abbey. The shards were put together recently using a two part epoxy resin Milliput putty by Hilary Higgot, one of the archaeology team members. A container full of sand was used to support the shards as they were put together. The vessel is in the possession of Earnest Wainright and on display at Rowden Abbey. Visit our archaeology group page for more information about the various digs. Back […] Read more…
21 July 2025The society has published a new book ‘Growing up in Grendon Bishop’ – a childhood reminscence by Leah Handley. Leah Handley was born in Grendon Bishop in 1920, the third of five children. She loved her rural childhood in the interwar years and her time as a pupil at Bredenbury School, and although she moved to Birmingham when she grew up, as an “old lady of 72” (her words), she jotted down a few reminiscences of her childhood for some young friends living close by. This is a charming account of country life in the 1920s, and a splendid addition to any local history library. You can buy a copy from our online shop, from the LHS centre or from History on Broad St. Back […] Read more…
16 July 2025Our July visit was to the Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick. Most people would know that Warwick has a castle, but few would be aware of the existence of the Lord Leycester Hospital. This magnificent building, which is over 900 years’ old and one of the few survivors from fire in the 17th Century. We were greeted by Jan Brodie Murphy, a Bromyard girl, who is now a brother in the community. Over 700 years ago, the United Guilds of Warwick built their headquarters consisting of a conference room, banqueting hall, mansion for the Master of the Guilds, storage rooms and lodgings for travellers. The Guildsmen built this splendid example of medieval half-timbered buildings with trees felled in the 1200’s from forests across England. Today, the site survives intact and tops the list of most complete and important medieval buildings in the British Isles. Today, the Master and Brethren still live in the community of the Lord Leycester established by Robert Dudley. Within the honey-coloured half-timbered walls it is as if time stood still. The Master and Brethren still wear Tudor livery and adhere to an ancient way of life. The Royal Hospital Chelsea, with its in-pensioners in their scarlet coloured livery are famous worldwide – The Lord Leycester is a much older, quieter and smaller forerunner of this most English of institutions. However, both have stood the test of time and still provide a place of sanctuary for those who have sacrificed to serve their country. Back […] Read more…
9 July 2025On the 26th June 2025 as part of their tour of summer visits, members of the Bromyard & District Local History Society were given a guided tour of Rowden Mill Station by Paul and Cecilia.This coincides with the ‘railway 200’ celebrations since 2025 is the 200th anniversary of modern train travel. Brief History notes for Rowden Mill StationOpened 1st September 1897Opened as part of the final section of the Worcester, Bromyard and Leominster Railway, the railway was bought out of bankruptcy by the Great Western Railway in 1888, which completed the line in 1897Closed 15th September, 1952After the Second World War, and with the greater use of the motorbus and private cars, traffic on the line fell considerably. Unstaffed as a station from September 1949, the line closed to regular passenger services on 15 September 1952.On 26 April 1958, a special train organised by the Stephenson Locomotive Society ran from Worcester Shrub Hill to Leominster, via Bromyard, calling at Rowden Mill, Fencote and Steens Bridge. The 50 society members rode on the last train that would run on the complete track before it was removed. The Worcester to Bromyard section was subsequently closed under the Beeching Axe in 1964.Purchased in dilapidated state on 28th September 1984 by John, Sue & James WilkinsonRestored in 1985 (The 150th Anniversary year of the Great Western Railway)The Rowden Mill site was purchased privately in 1984 and was restored. Two sections of track were also reinstalled. Rolling stock of various types including coaches, brake vans and goods vans have been located on the line at various times in the recent past.In March 1989 received the ‘Ian Allan Railway Heritage Award for the ‘Best Renovated Non-Working Station’. It was presented at Stationers Hall in London (21-03-89) by Lord Montague. Purchased by Paul Kirwan and Cecilia Chavez-Brandon on the 9th of June, 2017. Cecilia and Paul have continued the work started by the Wilkinsons. Along with the restoration of the cattle dock on the green platform, currently in preservation at Rowden Mill Station are: a 1962 Inspection Saloon Coach (DB999508), 1947 Brakevan (GWR35251), a 1961 BR VanWide (B782879), 1937 GWR ventilated Goods Van (‘Mink) and a 1950s BR Shocvan (B853318)In December 2023, Rowden Mill Station received a National Railway Heritage Award for ‘ Restoration on a Closed Line’ (category sponsored by National Highways). It was presented at Merchant Taylors Hall in London by Bill Reeve, Director of Transport Scotland.With the blue plaque commemorating this award unveiled at Rowden Mill station on 2nd September 2024.  With over 200 visitors, it was also an Open Day; successfully raising funds in aid of the renovations of Bredenbury Village Hall.On the 26th February 2025, at the inaugural Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards 2024, Rowden Mill Station was awarded a ‘Judge’s Commendation’ for ‘Restoration of the Year’References:https://htt.herefordshire.gov.uk/her-search/monuments-search/search/Monument?ID=30874 Rowden Mill stationSMR Number    : 30874Grid Reference    : SO 6270 5653Parish    : WACTON, HEREFORDSHIREOS; map 1964 (2). OS map 1st Edition 13 SE shows no railway. (1) Photo. Station restored over a period up to 1984. Received BR’s Heritage Award in 1989 (3, p128). Owner provides holiday accommodation in former LMS Inspection saloon (4, p179). Line continues maps OS map 1964 65 SW, 65 NE (2), OS map 1st Edition 21 NW, 21 SW shows no railway. (1)Monument Type(s)    RAILWAY STATION (Post Medieval – 1540 AD to 1900 AD) Back […] Read more…
17 June 2025On 12th June 2025 we enjoyed a group visit to Wenlock Priory which followed on from Will Motley’s talk on 9th April. We arrived in the morning with time for coffee, exploring the town and lunch before our  visit to the Priory itself. The Museum was interesting and informative and the church and Guildhall also worth visiting. Whilst the morning was dry, as we headed to the Priory reception, the rain started and lasted for most of our visit. Fortunately, there were trees and a remaining roofed part of the Cloister to shelter under whilst our guide, Susan, gave us an informative and interactive talk about the history of the Priory and remaining stonework. Happily, we were joined by Will Motley who was able to add lots of interesting detail. The rain eased off a little allowing us to explore the ruins of which the elaborately carved Norman Chapter House was particularly stunning. There was also the lavabo, cloister garden with anthropomorphic topiary, and a collection of Mediaeval to Victorian tiles to admire. Of course, as our visit ended and we set off home the rain eased and blue sky began to appear! Debbie Hughes Back […] Read more…
23 May 2025Firstly, a huge thank you to Debbie and Peter for hosting the afternoon at Thornbury on Monday 19th May. The weather was glorious – warm and sunny but not overly hot. We had a wonderful turn out at the church for Debbie’s talk after which a general discussion and Q&A ensued with much members’ knowledge being shared. Tea and yummy cakes were served in the garden afterwards and hopefully a good time was had by all. We sold £24 worth of the new Thornbury Church publication and we raised a further £132 from donations which has been split equally between the History Society and St Anna’s Church. We look forward to seeing another good turn out for Rowden Mill Station on 26th June. David Grant and I did a site visit earlier in the week and a flyer and an update on the format and parking arrangements will be circulated in a few days’ time. In the meantime, enjoy these photos from Thornbury.Joy Hoyle Back […] Read more…
5 April 2025On 30th March 2025  Phyllis died peacefully at home in Skenfrith with her family, aged 100 years.Historian, author and farmer; Phyllis was born in Birmingham to Frank and Dolly Cope. Frank, was a successful motorsport racer who owned and managed a popular garage and motorcycle dealership. During the second world war she served with the ATS and NAAFI. Afterwards travelling to Ontario to work on a market garden farm. When she returned she bought a farm near Bromyard where she established a dairy herd, married Noel and raised her family.At this time she helped found the Bromyard and District Local History Society and started a lifelong interest in researching and writing books on local history.She did volunteer work at both the Samaritans and Citizens Advice Bureau in Worcester; and served for a time as Director and Chairman of the Samaritans. She also volunteered for a time at Bromyard Hospital manning a trolley with toiletries and chocolates.Phyllis spent her last 30 years living in Skenfrith and will be lovingly remembered by her six children; Caroline, Tim, Meg, Jon, Ben and Kate. She will also be greatly missed by her grandchildren and great grandchildren.Her funeral service will be held at St Bridget’s Church, Skenfrith on Tuesday 29th April at 1pm. All are welcome to attend.Please wear colours that reflect a celebration of Phyllis’s life.Please make any charitable donations to St Bridget’s Church or St Michael’s Hospice, who lovingly cared for her and the family during her final days.   Back […] Read more…
11 March 2025This talk by Will Motley will explore the history of Wenlock Abbey, Much Wenlock, Shropshire, from the earliest foundation of Wenlock Priory up the end of the 20th Century, with new information about the Milnes Gaskell family at Wenlock Abbey in the 19th century and their visitors such as Henry James, Thomas Hardy and many others. The talk will discuss this rare architectural gem and show pictures of the interior of the Prior’s Lodgings.   Will Motley was born in Much Wenlock and grew up at the Abbey, which was owned by members of his family from the 1540s to the 1980s. Back […] Read more…
11 March 2025An exciting new initiative, Food Stories of Bromyard, by the BDLHS will be officially launched on the 3rd of April, between 5 and 8pm in the Oak Room at the Falcon Hotel in Bromyard. As refreshments will be served we would appreciate that you email Jayne at jayne@foodscapes.co.uk letting her know you will be attending by 27th March.  Jayne Bradley (a freelance food project manager) has been interviewing local farmers and food producers for the archive, with a grant awarded by HM Government, Cultural Development Fund. She has interviewed 8 local farmers and producers. The interviews will go into our archive. For a sneak preview of one of the interviews click on the image to the right. She has also created a map for visitors to Bromyard (above) which will be available across the town. The map will pinpoint all the significant food locations across the area. People will also be able to go online and download a recording of the best of the clips from the oral history interviews. Jayne was keen for visitors to our town to be able to find out more about past and present stories of farming and food production in the area and to feel connected to Bromyard’s significant food history. Jayne wants to continue to develop awareness of the amazing food economy of the town and the rich history of agriculture in the area. She wants to put Bromyard on the Food Map and Food Stories of Bromyard is another step in that direction. Back […] Read more…
5 March 2025On Saturday 1st March we had an excellent talk on Stained Glass in and around Bromyard by Rob Walker author of ‘The Medieval Stained Glass of Herefordshire and Shropshire’. Rob set the scene with a short video on the making of stained glass and the techniques involved before introducing us to the evolving styles of stained glass from medieval times to the present with examples from across Herefordshire and Shropshire. It was impressive to hear just how many stained glass makers were operating in the 19th and early 20th centuries: some of them familiar names such as Kempe and Burne-Jones but also others less well known. Rob then talked us through the stained glass of St Peter’s in Bromyard and  many of the local churches including work by Kempe in Bockleton, Hamnish and Tedstone Delamere, Hardman in Thornbury (left) and Burne-Jones at Leysters. Plenty of inspiration for more informed visits to lots of local churches! Back […] Read more…
15 January 2025Stained Glass in Bromyard and the Surrounding Village Churches by Rob Walker1st March at the LHS centre on Sherford St, 14:00 – 16:00Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served at half time. £10.00 per person, booking essential before 14th February.   Numbers are limited so please book by email to anna.ross@live.co.uk to ensure there are remaining places. Payment can be made online via the button below, at the LHS or HOBS on Broad St.  Powered by Rob Walker is the author of  ‘The Medieval Stained Glass of Herefordshire and Shropshire‘, a richly-illustrated book which represents the first comprehensive study of the medieval stained glass of Herefordshire and Shropshire, and includes a gazetteer of all known surviving stained glass in the two counties for the period c.1300–1700. (This book is available to buy from our online shop, LHS centre and at HOBS on Broad St). Back […] Read more…
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