The Lichfield Guildhall’s historic prison cells are set to reopen.
The refreshed displays will be opened to the public by Lichfield City Council on April 11.
The date marks the 400th anniversary of the death of Edward Wightman, one of the cell’s most well-known occupants.
Wightman, an ale-house keeper from Burton-on-Trent, was the last man to be burned at the stake for Heresy in England in 1612. He would have made the journey from the Guildhall cells to meet his fate on the Market Square at the hands of the Sheriff.
Town clerk Peter Young said: “The gruesome history of our city is fascinating for both visitors and locals, and the 400th anniversary of Wightman’s death is a fitting opening date.”
Events on April 11 will begin with a civic ceremony, prayers and a wreath laying on the Market Square at noon to commemorate the death of Wightman.
The new cells displays will then be open from 12.30pm until 4pm. At Lichfield Heritage Centre, visitors can find out more about the story of Wightman with dramatic performances at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
Tickets cost £3 and can be booked an advance on 01543 256 611 or from the Heritage Centre in person. A further two special evening performances will take place at 7pm and 8pm including a glass of wine and a private cells visit, for £5 a ticket.
After the opening day the cells will be open every Saturday from April 14 until the end of September from 10am to 4pm. To find out more call 01543 264972 or email to sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk.
