Tales of Retailing

There was a great deal of laughter at Audlem District History Society's meeting last Thursday when Derek McKelvey thoroughly entertained everyone present with reminiscences of previous businesses and local celebrities of Audlem.

He recalled how Moseley's used to employ 60 skilled craftsmen and Bonell's used to supply Rolls-Royce with fabricated steel cases.

Amongst his many amusing anecdotes was a tale relating to George Katterloher, an ex POW, who became Roger Moseley's right- hand man. George made a burglar alarm system from scratch (even the photo electric cells) for William's shop. It was so sensitive that the slightest movement set it off and so had to be abandoned!

Derek also regaled us with tales of the 'renowned' landlord and landlady of The Crown Hotel and the activities there.

On a more serious note (and very topical at present with recent planning concerns) was the successful campaign by Derek and several other locals to stop the proposed inner relief road that would have carved Audlem in two.

Despite having lost several services (the railway, banks and a dentist) he saw more boom than gloom, with no empty shops and more units under construction.

Derek concluded that, with our fine cemetery having splendid views across beautiful countryside, Audlem is definitely a place to be seen dead in!

Dorothy Jones (secretary)

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