AT a recent presentation by Chris Johnson who is the chairman of the Ledbury and District Civic Society to members of the Ledbury Rotary Club, Chris said that the society exists to ensure Ledbury's heritage is at the heart of our present and future.

Illustrating his talk with colourful photographs members were taken on a fascinating tour of Ledbury, including the Butcher Row House Museum. Originally one of a row of 15 houses and shops, (many of them butchers), which ran down the middle of what is now High Street, the houses were bought out by public subscription in 1830. Most were demolished, but Butcher Row House used to be in the back garden of 14 High Street.

Ledbury and District Civic Society was given the house in 1979. It was moved from the high street and re-erected it in its present location next to the Burgage Hall in Church Lane.

Chris went on to say that currently population of Ledbury stands at more that 10,000 and many of the residents in and around the region support the town in all its activities throughout the year.

The society is run entirely by volunteers; their prime objective of promoting and safeguarding our heritage and if you would like to become a member the cost is only £10 per year. E-mail: membership@ledburycivicsociety.org to find out more. Rotary president David Houghton thanked Chris for his enthralling talk, which captivated the interest and imagination of the audience.