Shropshire Council backs motion highlighting county's Shakespeare links
Cross-party support for proposal also sees councillors recognise pressures facing the arts sector and praise youth theatre
Shropshire Council has backed a cross-party motion highlighting North Shropshire's historical links to William Shakespeare and calling for greater recognition of the county's literary heritage.
The motion, approved at Thursday's full council meeting, was proposed by Councillor Alan Holford and received support from councillors across the political spectrum following a series of agreed amendments.
Although much of the meeting was dominated by debate over council finances, members came together to support the proposal, which also acknowledged the pressures facing the arts sector and recognised the contribution of local cultural organisations.
A Green Party amendment, proposed by Councillor Dean, added reference to the financial challenges facing arts organisations and the need for the council to be strategic in supporting culture at a time of limited public funding.
A further amendment from Reform UK councillor Shackerley-Bennett called for the chairman of the council to write to Shropshire Youth Theatre, thanking the organisation for its contribution to the county's cultural life.
The motion centres on the long-standing historical connections between Soulton Hall, near Wem, and Shakespeare's As You Like It. It notes that Soulton Hall was the childhood home of writer Thomas Lodge, whose 1590 romance Rosalynde is widely regarded as the principal source for the play.
It also refers to Sir Rowland Hill, who built Soulton Hall and is said to have inspired the character of Old Sir Rowland, together with historical links between the Hill family and Shakespeare's mother, Mary Arden.
During the debate, portfolio holder for culture Councillor Wagner said the council had an important role in supporting culture and heritage, despite financial pressures. He also highlighted the contribution of organisations such as Soulton Hall and said the council's cultural strategy would be reviewed.
The motion encourages greater collaboration between charitable organisations, businesses and the public sector to celebrate Shropshire's heritage and support the county's cultural and rural economy.