A Wem councillor and member of the Rotary Club believes a booklet produced by the town is one of the innovative and best in the country.

The town has produced a 'Welcome to Wem' booklet since 2016 as more people move to the area with the building of new houses, and it offers a comprehensive introduction needed for new families.

The booklet is the brainchild of Councillor Phil Moyse, who pitched the idea to the council, and feels it is has been a resounding success.

"The initial thoughts were how good it would be for newcomers moving into Wem to have instant information about the town they are moving into," he said.

"The surgery, schools, nurseries, town council, library, town hall and places to socialise are all included, as well as well as the 56 Sports and social clubs that are located throughout the town.

The 'Welcome to Wem Community Group' came up with a plan of action of what it would contain and how they could raise funds to produce the booklet.

"We were fortunate that many people saw the value of having such a document and we were able to obtain the funds required. There are no adverts in the document apart from the logos on the back page of those that have supported us.

"The booklet has become very popular and we now have 400 printed and they are distributed to estate agents, housing associations cafes, restaurants, among others.

"This booklet would not be produced if it were not for the generous help from businesses in and around Wem, such as: Meres and Mosses (Connexus), Midcounties Co-op, Wem Town Council, Monks Estate Agents, Wem and District Rotary Club, Robinson and Young, the Castle Hotel – all of who have supported us from the outset. Princes, an electric supplier, have also supported us this year.

"We try to ensure all newcomers obtain a copy by driving around and looking out for 'sold signs', posting a booklet. The community have also become very interested and look out for the annual booklet."

The booklet committee is completed by Bob Dibben, Brian Gee, Jean Colley and Liz Broomhall.