Blue heritage plaques are all over Horncastle
“There’s definitely no shortage of contenders for more plaques, so keep an eye out around town"
It was a double unveiling this week as two new plaques were unveiled in the town, by the Mayor of Horncastle.
The first recalls the exploits of a celebrated footballer from the past, Ambrose Langley. He was born in Horncastle in 1870 at what’s now Harpar’s Bar in South Street – and the plaque now sits proudly on the front wall of the bar.
Langley was a robust and strong defender who played first for Horncastle Town FC. He went on to win the Football League with Sheffield Wednesday, playing for them nearly 300 times.
Along the way, he played for Boston and Grimsby Town too, as well as Middlesbrough, before moving into management at Hull City. He took charge of his final club at Huddersfield Town.
Cllr Mike Beecham, the Mayor, said: “Down the years, many famous people have been closely linked with Horncastle and the surrounding area.
I’m proud to unveil this plaque today to one more of our celebrated people. Ambrose Langley was a great player, and a great son of Horncastle.”
The new plaque was generously funded by Horncastle Town FC, Horncastle Town Council and Harpar’s Bar.
The other plaque has been installed at the Watermill beside the River Bain to recognise the restoration of this lovely old building by owner Rob Sumner.
A spokesman for Horncastle History & Heritage Society said “We’re always pleased to recognise and celebrate our past, especially when it involves famous Horncastrians, or sensitive renovation projects, such as the one Rob has carried out.
“There’s definitely no shortage of contenders for more plaques, so keep an eye out around town!”