850 Celebrations for the Summer
A year-long celebration of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s heritage has reached it’s a peak…
This year is a special one for the Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, as it marks the 850th anniversary of King Henry II’s granting of the Royal Charter of Incorporation, issued in 1173.
Celebrations and activities have ranged from a mini-circus and a re-enactment of medieval life, to military parades, yarn-bombing the Ironmarket and rediscovering the stories of famous residents.
Simon Tagg, Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said: “We want these celebrations to reach many different parts of our community, uniting residents of all ages in a shared appreciation of this Borough’s special nature. We are steeped in in history and it’s important we take time to celebrate and reflect on the spirit and determination of people who made the town thrive and prosper through the centuries.
“Knowing your local area’s history, where you are from and what makes it stand out is an essential part of taking pride in your roots and I hope this year leaves us all with a strong sense of what it is be from here.”
Highlights for the rest of June include: Thursday June 22: a special tour of ‘The Lost Charter’ exhibition, looking at attempts to conserve the Borough’s historic collection of subsequent Charters through the centuries.
Saturday June 24: Armed Forces Day sees a parade, scores of military vehicles, food, drink and a vibrant general market, including young traders taking a stall for the first time.
Simon White, the Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said: “I am looking forward to all the events and particularly the Armed Forces Day: this Borough has a long tradition of supporting the military and this will be no exception.
“These celebrations are an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate our community, its people and its special heritage and I hope all our residents find something to enjoy.”
A free family fun day also took place on 3 June at the Brampton Museum, the Town Centre welcomed Yarn Bombers on 10 June and on Saturday, June 17 celebrations took place for a famous son of Newcastle-under-Lyme – Philip Astley – with Astley’s Homecoming to the town centre.
