Don’t frighten the children but… if you take them walking in the south Shropshire hills this weekend tell them to keep a sharp look-out for a wicked witch!
Families with ‘true grit’ are invited to meet “Witch Mitchell” as she awaits the return of the legendary white cow at the Mitchell’s Fold Stone Circle, at Stapeley Common on Sunday. Lucky ramblers will hear local folktales of Witch Mitchell and the Stiperstones Devil who is reputed to have hated the people of Shropshire.
They will learn, too, about the people who long ago lived and farmed in the area by joining a guided walk of the prehistoric landscape.
The walk will start at the stone circle, near Whitegrit, sign posted from the A488 at 2.30pm.
Also on Sunday is an event entitled ‘The Horrible Histories of Bishop’s Castle’ which starts at 11am in the town’s Market Square.
Walkers can listen to the “horrible histories” of local folk who once lived in this 12th century medieval market town as they are led through the streets from the castle to the church.
The guided walks are part of a series of walks in celebration of the Festival of British Archaeology and they are designed to help people learn about the archaeology of the area and enjoy the local myths and legends.
All guided walks last for approximately one-and-a- half hours and they cost £2 for adults, £1 for children and £5 for families.
The events are run by Mike Greene, of the Lydbury Field Group, Community Archaeology. For details please call 01588 680685.