A historic Sandfields image recreated by the Lichfield Waterworks Trust in 2017. Love the pointer. Image kindly supplied by Lichfield Waterworks Trust.

Sandfields Pumping Station champion and public historian extraordinaire Dave Moore revealed a surprise today – he’s been on BBC Midlands Today with presenter Bob Hockenhull talking about the remarkable project behind which David has been the prime mover – that of preserving and putting to community use the iconic Victorian building in south Lichfield.

Sandfields is not only an architecturally stunning building, but contains a precious but sadly dormant steam engine. How many pass by this landmark without ever giving it a thought?

I have been helping publicise David Moore’s mission for a few years now as he fights for the future of this piece of industrial and social history, and if you watch the news report below, you’ll find out exactly why I’m so supportive.

Video featured on Facebook by BBC Midlands Today.

David, working with the Lichfield Waterworks Trust has been successful in securing the building for the future as revealed here last year, and recently gained access to the interior of the pumping station for the first time, and have been undertaking regular work parties in recent weeks.

Do pop over to Dave Moore’s blog and check out the history of Sandfields – the group also has a Facebook page.

David is, of course, one of the leading lights of Lichfield Discovered, along with Kate ‘Cardigan’ Gomez from Lichfield Lore. I wish both he and the members of the Trust all the best for the future, and thank him for his dedication and selfless hard work.

I must confess at the outset I was sceptical of the possibility of achieving this huge task, but the dedication, drive and passion have proven me wrong, and I’m very glad about that!

Keep an eye out here for news of meetings of Lichfield Waterworks Trust and other events.