In 2014 Richard Churchley inaugurated a new annual magazine for the Feckenham Forest History Society covering the history of the east Worcestershire parishes around Inkberrow, Feckenham, Hanbury and Redditch, namely the former Feckenham Forest area.

The title of the magazine is the Feckenham Forester and Richard has been the editor ever since.

The magazine allows research and writing from many contributors to see the light of day.

Topics cover all aspects of the area’s history from Roman times to the twentieth century.

Some 20 writers have contributed articles over the years ranging from short snippets to more in-depth pieces.

In January 2019 the sixth issue was published.

The magazines are sold at the Feckenham Forest History Society’s monthly meetings and also in local shops and via the internet.

The magazine is therefore enjoyed by the general public as well as by members.

Although the magazine has encouraged many contributors, its production has been a solo effort, with Richard editing and laying out the magazine and organising the printing and distribution.

“It keeps me busy from September until December each year,” Richard says.

In November 2018 Richard was recognised for his work on the Feckenham Forester when the Worcestershire Local History Forum awarded him the Individual Prize for Promoting the History of Worcestershire.

Richard is interested in a wide range of history, especially aspects of the history of Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

He has published histories of pubs and written on the area’s needle industry.

He also enthuses audiences on local radio and enjoys talking to groups and societies on various topics, often combining local history with his other passion - folk music.

In 2010 Richard was awarded a doctorate from the University of Birmingham for his study of occupations in the Redditch and Alcester area.

For more information about the contents of the Feckenham Forester and where you can buy it visit the Feckenham Forest History Society website: www.feckenham-forest-history-society.org.uk which will also tell you about the society’s monthly meetings.

For more information about Richard’s talks and publications visit his website: www.churchley.org.uk