PAST visitors to Ludlow Festivals from West, North and South could not avoid seeing the iconic shape of Titterstone Clee Hills. Many visitors to Ludlow from the East travel over the hills and are struck by the remarkable and memorable views but that has been all they have experienced from their fleeting, transient passage.

This year’s Ludlow Fringe Festival introduced a change.

Alf Jenkins, born on the hills, and archaeologist Glynn Barratt, chair of Titterstone Clee Heritage Trust, had the opportunity to show 150-plus visitors some of the treasures and secrets of Titterstone Clee's heritage.

Glynn conducted a mid-summer excursion to Titterstone’s summit.

Alf did three tours suitable for all ages because participants travel by their vehicles to very near each location. As a result very little walking is necessary and a major part of the hills covered.

Trip one began at the Dhustone Hamlet, experiencing the fulcrum of the hill’s industries where the original coal railway incline operated. Trip two visited the present day quarry to learn about modern day quarrying and the exceptional qualities of the Clee dolerite, deep coal mines of Watsall and the overhead ropeway at Catherton. The final trip was to, probably, the only remaining beehive brick kiln in the West Midlands at Oreton.

Tours are arranged every year from April until Sept/October for many historical and social groups. For details contact Alf Jenkins on 01568780398 or Jenkingam@sky.com. To discover more about the valuable work of Titterstone Clee Heritage Trust, visit the website.