County town in Darwin spotlight

Thursday 12th February 2009, 8:59PM GMT.

Mayor of Shrewsbury Anne Chebsey, left, and Mike Dalton, from the Royal Mail, unveil the Darwin marker at Shrewsbury Library

Mayor of Shrewsbury Anne Chebsey, left, and Mike Dalton, from the Royal Mail, unveil the Darwin marker at Shrewsbury Library

The world’s media descended on Shrewsbury today as millions of people across the globe celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin.

The scientist was born at his family’s home in The Mount, Shrewsbury, on February 12, 1809. He spent his early years in the county, going to school in the building which is now home to Shrewsbury Library.

Outside the building this morning, Councillor Anne Chebsey, Shrewsbury mayor, and Mike Dalton, from Royal Mail, unveiled one of a series of waymarkers marking out places in the town linked to Darwin.

The waymarkers, which have been funded by Royal Mail, will serve as a guided tour for visitors.

Councillor Chebsey said it was a momentous day for the people of Shrewsbury and those across the world.

“In years gone by those of us who have lived here are aware of the link with Darwin,” she said. “It’s there, but you take it for granted, but now over the last three years we have realised how significant this man was for the town.

“I think it’s absolutely fantastic that we can now truly recognise one of our most famous sons.”

A Darwin marker