Looking for historical information

Andy Cliffe writes: "I am currently looking at Audlem's past. Why? Well I am recuperating after a heart attack suffered on Christmas Eve 2007, so I wanted something to do with my spare time and thought about putting together a historical look of Audlem onto CD and selling it. It is my intention to donate part of the revenue to the British Heart Foundation.

"Anyway, I have found two differing version on two different subjects, and was wondering if you could put me on the correct road.

1. The Audlem Online website states: "A Memorial Lamp Stand to Doctor Richard Baker Bellyse the Cock-Fighter (1738-1828)". However, the first Audlem Doctor was Dr John Bellyse 1738 -1829, and he was a county front-runner being known as "Cockfighting Bellyse."

"The Memorial Lamp Stand was erected in the village centre in 1877 was in memory of his son Dr Richard Baker Bellyse. The Inscription 'reads in memory of Richard Baker Bellyse who practised as a surgeon in this town for 40 years, born 17th May 1809, died 11th January 1877 / a man he was to all the country dear / in appreciation of a life spent in relieving the sufferings of his fellow creatures / by medicine life may be prolonged yet death will seize the doctor too'.

2. The Fire Station commemorating plaque states: "Commemorating 100 years continuous fire service in Audlem since February 1899". However, I have come across a picture which appears to shed a cloud over this statement. It is a picture of the Audlem Fire Brigade parading for the Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897, two years before the plaque date. I have attached a copy for you inspection. (This has been forwarded to the History Society) I would appreciate it if you could take a look and let me know which is correct.

"One other thing, do you know where I could obtain any old photographs of the village. I have some from the Internet, relatives, friends and Judith in the

village, but anymore would be most welcome. I will scan the photographs and return them ASAP without any damage.

"Thank you for your time and I look forward to your reply."

If anybody has any information, please forward it to Andy at Crewesader@aol.com">Crewesader@aol.com

This article is from our news archive. As a result pictures or videos originally associated with it may have been removed and some of the content may no longer be accurate or relevant.