Pen enthusiasts are inking a visit to Lichfield in their diaries as a regional show comes to the city.
The Midland Pen Show will bring together experts and collectors of vintage fountain pens and other writing equipment collectibles at the Guildhall on Sunday (June 19).
Thousands of pens will be on display including a number of rare items and there will also be the free valuations and advice on repairing and looking after them.
Show co-organiser Jeremy Collingridge will be displaying a unique piece of British maritime history – a hand made casket crafted from timber that was originally part of the Orlop deck of HMS Victory. The deck is reputed to be the spot where Admiral Lord Nelson died. Today the casket houses a limited edition Nelson fountain pen hand-produced by the Onoto Pen Company who will also be at the Guildhall.
The Birmingham Pen Room will also be at the show with plenty of examples of the products that made the area the world leader in pen nib manufacture.
Co-organiser and Lichfield resident Ian Williamson said:
“The Midland Pen Show has grown steadily in popularity since it began five years ago and is now the third largest show of its kind in the UK. Its popularity is due in no small way to the selection of Lichfield as its home.
“The city has so much to offer the show visitors who come from all over the UK and many from overseas.”
The Midland Pen Show takes place at the Guildhall on June 19 from 10am to 4pm and entry is free. The show is closely affiliated with the Writing Equipment Society who will be holding a discovery day from 11am to 3pm at Lichfield Library and on June 18.