EXPERIENCE UK
Field Trip to Leek
Saturday December 14th
2013
Meeting point: Leek Road Security Lodge (09:30)
Overview
Leek is
one of the oldest towns in Staffordshire, set in the scenic Staffordshire Peak
District. During
the 18th
Century, while Stoke on Trent was establishing itself as the centre for the
English Pottery
Industry,
Leek was becoming equally famous for the design and manufacture of textiles. In
fact many
textile
factories have been preserved and are now used as large antique centres,
attracting visitors
from
Britain and overseas.
View
of the Nicholson War Memorial
The town still plays an
important role in the surrounding rural area. It has several thriving markets,
both indoors and outdoors, dating back 800 years, still selling local produce.
The
Cattle market is one of the few such remaining markets in the Midlands and
attracts farmers
from
all over Britain. On Saturday December 14th there will be a Sheep auction which
will attract
numerous
sheep farmers from the surrounding hill farms.
Itinerary
Stage
One
Visit
the Sheep Market to observe and record.
Interview
a sheep farmer.
Stage
Two
Visit
the Butter Market
Interview
a stall holder.
Sample
the local food: Oatcakes
Stage Three
Visit
St Edward’s Church (over 1000 years old).
See the
mermaid in the churchyard dedicated to the French prisoners who helped kick
start the
town’s
textile industry between 1803 and 1812.
Interval
(Coffee/tea break) to discuss and share ideas/opinions, ask questions.
Stage
Four
Visit
the Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery followed by
Free
time to shop and explore
Return
to Stoke: 3pm
Task:
Update the blog with your photos, videos and yes please…short articles. Share
your ideas and comment on what the other team members write.