The recent run of large attendances continued with the Society’s April meeting, when The 32nd Master of the Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick gave us a brief history of the mainly 14th century building which, despite its name, is not and never was, a hospital as we know it.

The building had its origins in medieval times as a shelter for old warriors and continues to serve this function today.

In an enthralling presentation, our speaker, a retired Army officer, highlighted some aspects of the hospital’s intriguing Elizabethan history and then took us on a virtual tour of the chapel, the Guild Hall, the Main Hall and the Master’s House. To conclude, we were treated to photos and anecdotes of David Dimbleby’s television documentary and the Dr Who episode filmed there. All this raised members’ expectations for the Society’s visit to Warwick in October, when we shall enjoy the tour with the Master for real!

Anyone interested in documents and photographs covering the history of Hagley and details of our forthcoming events should go to our new website www.hhfs.org.uk.

Keep looking as there’s lots more to add yet!

Our meeting on 7th June sees Spencer Trickett returning to tell us about recent developments at Witley Court, including the restoration of the fountains. Non-members are always particularly welcome at meetings at 8.00pm in St Saviour’s Church Hall, on walks and on visits.