The current Sheriff of Lichfield, the Reverend Ian Hayter, will help to launch a novel, set in 17th Century Lichfield, which features a distant predecessor.
Written by Ian Walford, the starting point of ‘Mad, Bad or Good?’ is the martyrdom in 1612 of Edward Wightman. His execution, burned at the stake in the Market Square, was overseen by the then Sheriff. Wightman was the last person in England to be burned at the stake for heresy. The novel follows the fortunes of real and fictional characters as they grapple with the consequences.
I’m delighted to have been invited to take part in the launch of this novel. It has been meticulously researched and is a great read. Fortunately, the current Sheriff isn’t expected to oversee such macabre events as the one featured in the book! – Rev Ian Hayter.
The launch, a free event to which anyone is welcome, will take place at 7.15 on Thursday 15th January in Wade Street Church in Lichfield. The Sheriff and the author will be joined by Elaine Price, the chair of Dr Milley’s Hospital charity. Dr Milley’s, which also features in the novel, has been providing sanctuary for vulnerable women in Lichfield for over 600 years. Profits from sales of the novel will be donated to the charity.
Ian Walford a former Chief Executive of Historic Scotland, was born and brought up in the West Midlands. He has written three previous novels inspired by the history of the West Midlands including the Staffordshire Hoard and the Roman fort at Wall. All his books can be obtained at ian walford’s books
If you would like any more information please contact Ian Walford on 07544 356665 or Lichfield City Council on 01543 250011.
