Chilterns heritage group launched

The Chiltern Society, a charity with 7,000 members, is establishing a Chilterns Heritage Group at a launch event at the historic Chenies Manor on 9 April, and is inviting members of the public to attend.

Jeffrey Newman, Chairman of the new group, said: “We are keen to take on projects and launch initiatives aimed at protecting the history and heritage of the Chilterns, and to work with other groups where necessary. We are already identifying the sort of projects that could be included which we will explain in a little more detail at the launch.”

Ideas already under discussion include the publication of a Chilterns Heritage Trail; helping protect the historic pubs in the Chilterns and bringing the story of the Ridgeway to life for walkers on the National Trail, which runs through the Chilterns and is now managed by the Ridgeway Partnership, a consortium of many groups, including the Chiltern Society.

David Harris, Chairman of the Chiltern Society, said: “The Chilterns has always played a key role in the culture and history of the country and continues to do so. It includes important buildings and landmarks and has played host to scores of significant figures from the world of literature, art and politics. Our aim is to promote and champion that heritage so it is not only appreciated by the thousands of people who live in the Chilterns but the many visitors attracted to its unique landscape.”

Earl Howe, Patron of the Society, the present custodian of Penn House and the successor of at least fifteen previous generations of the Penn, Curzon and Howe families who have made Penn their home, will be the guest speaker at the launch.

Places at the event in Chenies Manor are limited, but if you would like to attend please contact the Chiltern Society office on 01494 771250 or book online at www.chilternsociety.org.uk