The restoration of the fabric & new facilities are nearly finished, & for the new displays local blacksmith Darren Broome has created a replica of the ancient spearhead found in the 1920s on Titterstone Clee.

The 175 year old building of St John’s in Doddington is being brought firmly into the 21st century. The builders are bringing about the careful restoration of the fabric while new facilities like a toilet, servery and heritage displays are created. We held our first hard hat visit this month for people to get a sneak preview of progress. The work is due to complete by the beginning of April and we look forward to welcoming people back.

As part of the development of the new displays, local blacksmith Darren Broome has created a replica of the ancient spearhead found in the 1920s on Titterstone Clee. At the time a photograph was taken but its whereabouts are not now known. Using traditional techniques, Darren has been able to fire weld different grades of iron as the original smith would have done over 1000 years ago. 

Some of this amazing history has inspired our songwriter in residence Sid Peacock. He has now written a series of musical works which will be performed at St Laurence’s in Ludlow on May 9th. It will be an evening to remember as local musicians, choirs and school children come together to celebrate the unique heritage of the Clee hills. Get this date in your calendars now. Further details will come in future issues or check the website www.stjohnsdoddington.org for updates.

The Clee hills have such a rich community heritage, if you want to get involved in celebrating this, the Beacon on the Hill team would love to hear from you. Get in touch with Jim or Celia stjohnsdoddington@gmail.com