BOWLAND IS THE SWITZERLAND OF ENGLAND

MANORIAL SOCIETY OF GREAT BRITAIN

Embargoed until 0900 hrs GMT 20 April 2010


"BOWLAND IS SWITZERLAND OF ENGLAND", SAYS MYSTERY LANCASHIRE LORD


The Manorial Society today released the first ever interview with Lancashire's mystery Lord of Bowland.

In the interview, the 16th Lord - who likes to be known simply as William Bowland - calls for a new deal for the Bowland. He argues that, if it is to thrive, the Forest of Bowland needs to develop "a reawakened sense of [its] history ... a nostalgia for the future".

Describing Bowland as the "Switzerland of England", characterised by "stunning scenery ... the contentment of its inhabitants, their sturdy independence of spirit and general prosperity", he offers himself to the 16,000 folk who live in the 300 square miles that were once his lordly domain as a voice, an "unexpected champion", a guardian of their heritage.

Robert Smith, Chairman of the Manorial Society that represents Britain's 1,900 feudal lords and barons, said: "The Lord of Bowland is intent on forging a new kind role for himself as feudal lord. He wants to serve the community and to be in a position to stimulate action and debate about the future. He is passionate about Bowland and certainly not the type to stand on ceremony. You won't find this Lord parading around in ermine or beating the bounds!".

The identity of the 16th Lord of Bowland, who acquired his ancient title last year from the Towneley family, has never been disclosed. Over Easter, he stunned Bowlanders by appointing Robert Parker of Browsholme Hall the first Bowbearer of the Forest of Bowland in 150 years.

The full interview can be viewed at:

www.forestofbowland.com/files/uploads/MartinsBlog/NFTF%20v2.pdf


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For more information, contact Robert Smith, Manorial Society on 0207 735 6633; email: manorial@msgb.co.uk