Much Wenlock Town

Not that many people know, but the town of Much Wenlock in the county of Shropshire in the UK, is the birthplace of Dr William Penny Brookes. Dr William Penny Brookes was the inspiration for the modern Olympic Movement and founder of the Wenlock Olympian Society.

Records state that it was in the year 1850 that the first ever Wenlock Olympian Games were held in Much Wenlock. The games were developed "to promote the moral, physical and intellectual improvement of the inhabitants of the Town and neighbourhood of Much Wenlock".

Over subsequent years this concept inspired individuals and sporting organisations throughout Europe – this inspiration has no doubt made a significant contribution to the re-birth of the modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. As part of this recognition to our sporting heritage, the 2012 London Olympic Games have named one of their mascots Wenlock.

With the imminent arrival of the 2012 London Olympics, Shropshire Tourism anticipates a significant upsurge with overseas visitors to Much Wenlock in 2012. For people looking to come and stop near Much Wenlock during the London Olympics, we would recommend you visit our website www.shropshireholidaylets.co.uk where we can cater for or all your accommodation requirements. Or alternatively email bookings@shropshireholidaylets.co.uk

For more information about the original games and Much Wenlock's contribution to the modern Olympic Games visit the Wenlock Olympian Society website.

Other useful sites for Much Wenlock and Dr William Penny Brookes can be found here:

www.muchwenlockguide.info
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Much_Wenlock
www.muchwenlocktourism.co.uk
www.shropshiretourism.co.uk/much-wenlock
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Penny_Brookes

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