Historic Shropshire links to London and Essex recognised
Unanimous support has been given to a motion highlighting Soulton Hall’s links to London, Essex and Saint Erkenwald
Shropshire councillors have unanimously backed a motion recognising the historic connections surrounding Soulton Hall near Wem.
The motion highlights the links between the estate, Sir Rowland Hill, Saint Erkenwald and Old St Paul's Cathedral, as well as wider connections with London and Essex.
The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Bernie Bentick, told a meeting of Shropshire Council this week about the legacy of Saint Erkenwald, the seventh-century bishop of London associated with charity, law and reconciliation.
The discussion also focused on Sir Rowland Hill, who served as Lord Mayor of London during a period of religious change and is associated with the preservation of historic sacred items and the high altar at Soulton Hall.
Councillors also heard about the potential for the history of Soulton Hall and its connections to be used to promote the area to visitors and encourage interfaith dialogue.
A cross-party amendment was introduced by Conservative Councillor Dan Thomas and seconded by Reform UK Councillor Charles Sheakley Bennett after a recent visit to Soulton Hall.
It asks the Chair of Shropshire Council to write to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex to propose honours recognition for researchers James Wenn and James Syrett, who have researched the history and helped highlight the connections between Soulton, London and Essex.
The estate was also recently featured on The Rest is History podcast.
Councillor Alan Holford, who proposed the original motion, highlighted the links with Wem and Wem Rural. He referred to the traditional hatchet and billhook associated with the Quit Rents ceremony and correspondence from Philip Cawood.
He also highlighted a connection between Soulton and Number 10 Downing Street, noting that stone used for its doorway came from Grinshill.
Councillor Holford described the symbolism maintained by followers of Sir Rowland Hill, in which Soulton was compared with Solomon's Temple and Grinshill with its quarry.
The original motion was brought forward by Liberal Democrat members with support from Labour, Green and independent councillors.
All councillors present voted in favour of both the motion and the amendment.