Herefordshire is one of the most historically significant counties in the UK. The settlement of Hereford continues to attract citizens and tourists from all over the world. Here are 9 interesting facts about the county.
1. Hereford is Famously Known for Its Cattle Lineage
Cattle in Hereford have been bred to maximise beef yield since 1742. The Hereford breed is in high demand across the world, with more than 5 million pedigree Hereford cattle found in more than 50 countries.
2. The Hereford Cider Museum Opened in 1981
Hereford is famous for making the best cider in the country. The Museum was opened as a way of celebrating the rich cultural tradition of cider making in the county. It is run by a charity organisation, and it hosts several cultural events annually.
3. Frank Oz Was Born in Herefordshire in 1944
Ever heard of Yoda from Star Wars? The ingenious voice actor and Emmy-winning co-creator, Frank Oz, was behind the legendary character of Yoda. Frank was born and raised in Herefordshire.
4. The Town Had A Boxing Champion
Tom Spring was a prominent sportsman and bare-knuckle fighter from 1821 to 1824. He was born in 1795 in Herefordshire. The county had something to boast about for decades, as this fighter attracted avid boxers from all over the country.
5. Madeleine Carrroll Lived in Herefordshire
Carroll was born in Herefordshire and would become one of the highest-paid Hollywood actresses since showbiz records began. At one stage, she held the title of the Queen of British Cinema in 1938.
6. Nell Gwyn Was Born in Herefordshire
Prominent performers and satirists performed on stage and in theatre productions in the renaissance period. Nell Gwyn was one of the most notable performers during the 1680s.
7. Celebrating The History of Television
Gilbert Harding was a famous journalist and BBC television and radio personality that was born in 1907 in Hereford. He is most well-known for the famous television show: ‘’What’s My Line’’.
8. Catherine Cookson Started Writing In Hereford
The author wrote her first book, ‘’Kate Hanagan’’ when she lived just outside of the city of Hereford. Cookson wrote more than 100 novels in her life and sold more than 120 million copies worldwide.
9. A Third of Herefordshire’s Population Lives in Hereford City
Herefordshire is a large county, but about a third of the county’s population resides in Hereford city. The citizens are relatively old, with about 25% of the population over the age of 65.
Interested to learn more exciting facts about Herefordshire? Find more information by visiting the county and following the latest events, organisations, and initiatives online.