2019 Local Hero Joseph Arch: Champion of agricultural labourers in England

Walk in the footsteps of a legendary local hero, hear what a modern day Joseph Arch has to say and join in the singing of songs rarely heard since his death 100 years ago!  

Wellesbourne Allotment Association (WAA) is inviting local people to join them on a free walk and festivities on Sunday February 10 to commemorate 100 years since the death of Joseph Arch. 

Joseph Arch lived in Barford and was one of the first commoners to become an MP. His ground-breaking speech in 1872 under the Chestnut tree outside the Stag’s Head proved a pivotal moment in social and political history, helping to improve the rights of agricultural labourers. He was also a passionate advocate of allotments.

Members of WAA will be joining the Barford Heritage Group for a commemorative wreath laying in Barford before joining other walkers on the Joseph Arch Way, passing the cottage where he lived to the picturesque Stag’s Head at Wellesbourne where they will be met by the Hereburgh Morris Dancers and a modern day Joseph Arch.

They have also commissioned the new Wellesbourne community choir to lead participants in the singing of songs of the time about Joseph Arch found in a rare book in the Bodleian Library in Oxford.

WAA chair Ian Hope says: “He stood up for the rights of agricultural labourers at a time when for many their lot was pitiful. He was a true local hero and we hope many others will want to join us in remembering him.”

The walk will be guided but is across country so suitable clothing is essential. Wellesbourne Allotment Association is laying on free transport from The Stag to Barford for those who want to join the walk in the morning but places are limited and must be reserved. Festivities outside The Stag’s Head will begin at 1.15pm and are free. For further details of timings and to book a place on the walk bus email  wendy@wellesbourneallotments.co.uk