Conference on importance of looking after milestones

PEOPLE interested in looking after milestones are invited to take part in a one-day conference to learn more about historic waymarkers and how they can be cared for.

The conference is being organised by the national Milestone Society and the South West Peak Landscape Partnership.

The event will include presentations and talks from historians and milestone specialists.

Milestones are roadside waymarkers, the Romans first used stones to mark distances along their military roads and, centuries later, milestones and cast iron mileposts were installed to show distances on turnpike roads.

Catherine Parker Heath, cultural heritage officer for the South West Peak Landscape Partnership, said: “Milestones are remarkable features which remain as little monuments along historic routes.

“In the South West Peak area, we have been encouraging people to look after them so that they survive into the future.

“Together with the Milestone Society, we would love for anyone interested in the upkeep of milestones to come along to the conference and find out how they can get involved.”

Jan Scrine, a founder member of the Milestone Society, said: “Milestones come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and there are many fascinating examples around the Peak District.

“We look forward to sharing information with anyone who is interested in the historical significance of milestones or in caring for them.

“There’s plenty of information on our website, www.milestonesociety. co.uk, including full details of the Buxton conference.”

The conference will take place at Buxton Community School on Saturday May 21. Doors open 10am for a 10.30am start, and the event will end by 3.30pm.

The event is free to attend for Milestone Society members (annual membership is £12.50) and non-members are welcome at an admission charge of £3; places are limited and must be booked in advance.

To book or for more information about the conference, email catherine.parkerheath@peakdistrict. gov.uk.