Pulford & Poulton Local History Group
“While we put up flyers on local noticeboards to reach a nearby audience, EssentialsMAG helps us connect with people from a wider area. Without that coverage, I doubt we’d attract as many visitors and members.”
Building awareness with EssentialsMAG
An event promotion case study
The Pulford & Poulton Local History Group is dedicated to celebrating the stories, people, and places that have shaped life along the Cheshire–Wrexham border. Since its formation in 2000, the group has been bringing local history to life through engaging talks, guided walks, and a steadily growing archive of photographs, maps, and documents generously shared by residents. Their work spans the history of ancient settlements, historic churches, local architecture, and everyday village life, helping to connect the community to its rich and fascinating past.
Committee member responsible for publicity and information, James Harvey, who has led the group for several years, highlights the importance of the group’s long-standing relationship with EssentialsMAG, which now spans almost two decades.
“For many years, EssentialsMAG has been a major source for promoting our events and talks,” James explains. “While we put up flyers on local noticeboards to reach a nearby audience, the magazine helps us connect with people from a wider area. Without that coverage, I doubt we’d attract as many visitors and members.”
In recent years, the group has benefited from the magazine’s online What’s On guide, which makes it quick and easy for local organisations to share their events with a wider audience.
“Uploading our details online is straightforward and convenient,” says James. “It has reduced some of the direct interaction we used to have with Vicky, but she remains incredibly helpful and supportive. She often invites us to submit articles on local history or news, which allows us to share more about Pulford and Poulton with the community.”
The group now promotes its talks and events both in the magazine and online, reaching audiences they may not otherwise connect with.
“I live in one of the outlying areas covered by EssentialsMAG’s circulation,” James adds. “Although it’s the only hyperlocal magazine I receive, I always keep it. It’s my first port of call if I need a trade or service, as I prefer to ‘support local’, and I often use it to discover events or activities nearby. It genuinely connects us with the wider community in a way that other publications just don’t.”
For the Pulford & Poulton Local History Group, the magazine has become more than just a promotional tool - it’s a trusted partner in their mission to keep local history alive. By combining research, storytelling, and community engagement, the group helps residents and visitors alike discover the rich heritage of the Cheshire–Wrexham border. From sharing archival discoveries to hosting talks that bring the past into the present, they continue to inspire curiosity and foster a sense of place.
EssentialsMAG owner, Vicky Heathfield, says:
“The What’s On guide has always been one of our most popular features. Since moving it online, it’s become an essential resource for local groups and residents to find and promote events quickly. It’s wonderful to see it helping organisations like the Pulford & Poulton Local History Group reach new audiences and keep the area’s heritage alive.”
Through this partnership, the group and the magazine demonstrate how grassroots initiatives and hyperlocal media can work together to celebrate history, build community, and connect people with the places they call home.
For more information about Pulford & Poulton Local History Group, please: CLICK HERE
