Shropshire Council has unanimously adopted the Erkenwald motion (follow link for full text prior to hnours amendment regarding Wenn and Syrett) following a wonderful expression of unity, shared civic pride, and outreach to Essex and London.
Introduced by Liberal Democrat members and supported by Labour, Green, and independent councillors alongside a collaborative cross-party amendment from Conservative and Reform UK members, the historic vote secures formal regional recognition for the deep cultural ties linking Soulton Hall and Sir Rowland Hill to the heritage of Saint Erkenwald and Old St Paul’s Cathedral.
During the council session, Councillor Alan Holford introduced the proposal by reading the motion verbatim, emphasizing its direct relevance to Wem and Wem rural while highlighting broader Shropshire connections—such as Philip Cawood’s correspondence regarding the historic hatchet and billhook used in the Quit Rents ceremony.
Councillor Holford also noted that the stone framing the door of Number 10 Downing Street originated from Grinshill because, within the allegory used by the circles of followers of old Sir Rowland, Soulton represents Solomon’s Temple and Grinshill serves as its quarries; choosing a local Shropshire stone located 150 miles away from London deliberately mirrored the distant sourcing of materials for the biblical temple to impart wisdom.
Councillor Holford further stressed that exploring such deep history helps society avoid repeating past mistakes.
The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Bernie Bentick, spoke next, detailing the historical significance of Saint Erkenwald as a revered seventh-century bishop and London patron, and connecting Sir Rowland Hill’s actions during sixteenth-century turbulence to the safeguarding of the high altar and relics at Soulton Hall.
Councillor Bentick also highlighted the importance of promoting regional heritage for the visitor economy and fostering interfaith ties.
Following these remarks, Conservative Councillor Dan Thomas moved the cross-party amendment—seconded by Reform UK Councillor Charles Sheakley Bennett—after sharing a recent visit to Soulton Hall and praising the work done to revive Saint Erkenwald’s memory and its recent spotlight on The Rest is History podcast.
The amendment specifically asks the Chair of Shropshire Council to write to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, requesting honours recognition for the significant contributions of James Wenn and James Syrett in uncovering this fascinating chapter of Shropshire history, strengthening ties with London, and rescuing heritage that could otherwise have been forgotten.
The motion passed unanimously.
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This was covered in the press as follows:
- “Historic Shropshire links to London and Essex recognised” – Shropshire Star
