NOT A Shropshire Lad, poems published in support of a Herefordshire church are a keenly observed study by a man with a lifelong love of his own Herefordshire homeland.
Verses from a Country Lad is a collection of observations, celebrations and laments from a long life. As his writings confirm, Herefordshire is John Mokler’s favourite place on earth. He has lived in eight houses, all of them in Almeley he points out happily.
Mr Mokler previously teamed up with a group of friends to produce a new song for Hereford FC, with an extra verse added on to celebrate the Bulls’ epic trip to the home of football in May 2021.
Well-known through his business and cricketing connections, Mr Mokler's booklet, sponsored by his nephews Paul and David Mokler, is sold in aid of the parish church of St Mary’s.
John’s inspirations for his poetry are wide-ranging. His love of the countryside is evident, and he also demonstrates a full appreciation of the NHS.
His verse entitled ‘1952’ focuses not only on the Queen’s accession to the throne but also the emergence of Almeley Cricket Club. John recalls those early days when a meadow, complete with bumps and tussocks formed the pitch before play shifted to Almeley Common where it has remained.
“So well done all and let’s hope we never, Fail to see eleven white clad chaps out in sunny weather,” he reflects.
His reminiscences are touching as in his poem ‘Mr Dick Webb’. The bootmaker, with shops in Almeley and Eardisley, was well-supported and John remembers: “He always went to his shops on his bike, Where old lamps provided both heat and light. He’s long gone now, as are his like, But to the end he was a rural delight”.
There are references to those who went off to fight in the two world wars, to old friends, to Hereford United, the River Wye and even the delights of drinking tea.
John pays tribute to his friend Guy Wilkinson for helping prepare his writings for publication, and his sponsors Pineapple Properties and Compressors and Washers of Widemarsh Street in Hereford.
As well as recounting long-lost times in rural Herefordshire, John demonstrates a gift for everyday observation. His poem, Fred the Fish also shows his sense of fun.
“I really, really wish
I won’t come back as Fred the fish
He lives in my pool and I like him, you see
And at the same time, I think he likes me
That’s as far as it goes
But really I wish
I won’t come back as
Fred the fish."
Verses from a Country Lad is available at £2.50 from the Bells pub and deli at Almeley, Eardisley’s Strand pub and bookshop and from Guy Wilkinson on 01544 327171.
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