Whitchurch composer's letters go on sale

German was born in Whitchurch in 1862, trained at the Royal College of Music, and became musical director of the Grove Theatre in London.

His father was the organist at the church in Whitchurch and the collection, including photos, will be sold by Trevanion and Dean auctioneers which is based in the town.

"We were so excited to see these historically important letters signed by Edward German himself", auctioneer Christina Trevanion said.

"German was one of the most popular English composers of the first decade of the 20th century, a successor to Arthur Sullivan of the great Gilbert and Sullivan, he was renowned particularly in the fields of comic opera and light classical works, and to think he grew up here, in our town of Whitchurch is quite wonderful."

Despite his illustrious musical career around the world, German never forgot his Shropshire roots.

The letters, written in 1931 and 1934 to Mr Birchall at 40 High Street, Whitchurch, are a "wonderful illustration" of his continuing affection for the town, Christina said.

"The letters make fascinating reading and show his continuing interest in promoting music and the arts within the town," she said.

The auctioneers are hoping that local museums, institutions or private Shropshire collectors will find the collection equally as fascinating and dig deeply to ensure that they stay in the county.

"We sincerely hope that these letters will stay within Shropshire, they are an important part of our county’s history. These letters have only just come to light after nearly 100 years in a drawer, it would be lovely for them to be on permanent display for us all to enjoy," Christina added.

The letters are to be sold as part of the fine art and antiques auction on Saturday at 10am.