June Jukes

June Jukes came to talk about the history of Cannock Chase. The land was owned by the Bishops of Lichfield but became part of Henry 8ths territory. She explained how it was coppiced and the wood used in furnaces or for building timber framed houses and ships.
In the wartime the Chase was used by the military and a railway ran through the area. The M.O.D. wanted to claim the area and make the land out of bounds to the public. The Association of Friends Of Cannock Chase was formed in November 1947. In 1958 the area was given the status as an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty(AONB)
Further battles have ensued to prevent the area being swallowed up by the M6 and no doubt there will be future challenges but The Friends of Cannock Chase have an active membership with events planned throughout the year. For enquiries or to join contact June Jukes on 01543 571241. Their membership is £7 per year. Their website is www.friendsofcannockchase.btck.co.uk
As an aside our Etching Hill is part of the AONB.