VISITORS to Droitwich on Sunday (June 1) got to toast the tercentenary of the turnpike which ran from Droitwich to Worcester.
A Turnpike is a toll road where users are charged to pay for the upkeep of the highway and the first one in the Spa, which was also the first in the county, was launched on June 1, 1714.
Actors form the Norbury Theatre and Bygonz re-enacted the opening of the turnpike 300 years ago.
And a plaque was unveiled on the day by the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Lt Col Patrick Holcroft, who was accompanied by the Mayor of Droitwich Bob Brookes, the chairman of Wychavon Lynne Duffy and the chairman of Worcestershire County Council Pam Davey.
During his speech, Mr Holcroft said: “This is a marvellous and somewhat quirky occasion and I love such uniquely British events.
“A lot of work has gone into this celebration and the people of Droitwich must be very proud of this achievement particularly as 300 years ago Droitwich was leading the way in opening this turnpike.”
Chris Bowers, from the Droitwich History Society and event organiser, said: “It was a fitting celebration of a great achievement for Droitwich and it was lovely to see the interest and support of people of Droitwich.”
The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lt Col Patrick Holcroft, gave a speech. s
The plaque was unveiled. s
