MATLOCK LUNCHEON CLUB

Sir Richard Fitzherbert and his sister Selina with Elaine Lovell, Chair of the Club

The members of the Matlock Luncheon Club welcomed Sir Richard Fitzherbert, 9th Baronet, to their 8th May meeting. He was wearing the uniform of the High Sheriff of Derbyshire having already attended a VE Day event in Staveley.

Sir Richard gave us a fascinating insight into the history of the Fitzherbert family, beginning with their arrival with William the Conqueror in 1125. Their seat at Tissington Hall has been in the family since 1609. We saw portraits of his ancestors and photographs of some of the state rooms. He gave us an awareness of the difficulties of managing a house with 61 rooms and limited hot water.

Thirty-six years ago, Sir Richard inherited the estate which included 1000 acres, 40 properties and many derelict buildings. Over the years and together with his wife and family, he has turned disused buildings into profitable businesses including a kindergarten, tea rooms, a hairdresser, a craft shop and holiday cottages. They open the hall to visitors 28 days a year and host weddings. He hopes the next generation will continue this work – he is clearly proud of the longevity of his family. They will celebrate 900 years of Fitzherberts with a service in the church this year.

The Tissington well dressings will take place from 29th May to 4th June this year when the residents of the village will welcome thousands of visitors. The money they raise supports many local charities. There are six wells to decorate, all done with true community spirit. Sir Richard invited us all to visit and we thanked him for a very entertaining and informative talk.