Chasetown is in Lichfield District.  It is a former mining area, but apart from an open-cast mine on the outskirts, there is no trace left of this once important industry.  Brief History of Chasetown

Chasetown is part of the Parish of Burntwood, which is a mainly residential area in the southern part of Staffordshire  It is situated one mile north of the A5 Watling Street, and about fifteen miles north of Birmingham, midway between Cannock and Lichfield.  There are a number of local shopping areas, a library and some light industry.  The highly esteemed car-manufacturer, Reliant, famous for its much sought-after  three wheeled car, recently re-located to the area. Other local industry includes Fletcher Sports Boats, Haden Kettles, and a Vinegar Factory.

Adjacent to Burntwood is the Parish of Hammerwich (where we reside), and it is difficult to see the boundary in most places.  Hammerwich village (as distinct from the parish) is separated from Burntwood by farmland, and is situated on a fairly lofty position.  The village has some attractive features, including a windmill (alas, without its sails), a church, and a village pond.

Lichfield, an ancient Cathedral City, is five miles  (8km) from Chasetown.  Although a city by virtue of its Cathedral, it is in reality a small town.  There are a number of old buildings and the city has retained much of its character despite attempts at modernisation in the past.  The city was the birthplace of the lexicographer, Samuel Johnson.

Lichfield Cathedral is one of the gems of the area.  It is the only
ancient British Cathedral to retain three spires, which are known as the Ladies of the Vale.

Chasetown is on the outskirts of Cannock Chase, an ancient royal hunting forest.  This is an area of outstanding natural beauty, consisting of heath land and forest.  The area is home to a large number of wild deer, and until recently the red squirrel (Score 50 points if you do see one!).

Staffordshire is a county in the English Midlands.  Most people think of it as an industrial area, but the reality is that the county is very rural.  The county extends from the Peak District National Park in the north, to the borders of Worcestershire in the South.  The deep coal mines have all but vanished.  Unfortunately there is still some open-cast mining which is a blight on the landscape.

Stoke-on-Trent is the major industrial centre of Staffordshire, although it has recently gained its 'independence' and is now a unitary authority. 

The County Town is Stafford.  Other towns in Staffordshire are Burton on Trent,  Rugeley, Stone, Uttoxeter, Cannock, Tamworth and Newcastle under Lyme.

On Cannock Chase