Brian Hedge gave us an illustrated, historical talk on Tuesday 6 November. Brian is deeply interested in local history and for the purpose of this presentation he combined the first halves of two separate talks.
Beginning with Cromer, he described journalist Clement Scott’s arrival at Cromer, at the behest of the Daily Telegraph. It was Scott who nicknamed this area “Poppyland”. Brian mentioned how the new railways in the 19th century brought holidaymakers to North Norfolk and of course this led to the development of both towns. Then we saw old pictures of Happy Valley towards the golf links; the lighthouse; the parish church; and of the windmill which used to be in what is now called Mill Road.
In the second half, Brian showed old photos of Upper Sheringham – its streets, the church, and Sheringham Hall, which was built in the lee of a wooded hillside. He told us about The Dales – a former rectory which was converted into a private hotel and which at one time was used as a military hospital. We were also shown views of Sheringham from Beeston Hill (in winter!) and also of Beeston Priory. Brian also spoke about Sheringham Park, Pretty Corner, and much else.
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