"All Friends Round the Wrekin" group formed

10.33.13pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 10th Aug 2004

A new independent community group was formed on 10 August to support the bid by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust to purchase part of the Wrekin for £500,000. Called by well known writer and historian George Evans, to allow those with the best interests of the Wrekin at heart to have their say, 75 people attended the inaugural meeting at Wellington Civic Centre. The meeting endorsed his role as President, and agreed to appoint George Chancellor, Chairman of Little Wenlock Parish Council, as Chairman.

The main activities were stated to be publicity and fundraising, but a whole range of ideas were put forward for consideration by the organising committee. Donation forms were distributed for people to contribute to the appeal, and pass on to friends, neighbours, and potential sponsors. Copies should be available in all the local libraries. The meeting was attended by Wellington mayor, Cllr Pat Fairclough, and a number of other councillors, including Cllr David Murray, Chairman of the Wrekin and Telford Liberal Democrats.

The aim is to provide wide support for the future of the Wrekin, including those parts still in private ownership. A bid has been submitted to the Heritage Lottery Fund, and a decision has been promised by mid-September, but this will provide only part of the cost of the purchase and upkeep of paths and woodland for public benefit, including the provision of toilets and adequate parking areas for visitors. It is essential that the public demonstrate their support by giving generously to the Appeal, to help maintain this historic feature for posterity.