Hereford (Welsh: Henffordd (pronounced "Henfuth")) is a historic city in the west of England, close to the border with Wales and on the River Wye. It is the county town of Herefordshire. In 2001, Hereford had a population of 50,154.

Hereford has a cathedral which dates from 1079 which contains the Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world dating from the 13th century and restored in the late 20th. An early town charter from 1189 describes it as 'Hereford in Wales'. [1]

It is known chiefly as a trading centre for a wider agricultural and rural area. Products from Hereford include: (Bulmer's) cider, beer, leather goods, cattle, nickel alloys and chemicals.

Hereford is the home of the Special Air Service or SAS.

Hereford is also home of Hereford United Football Club, who had a long spell in the Football League and currently ply their trade in the Nationwide Conference.

On January 28, 2005, Hereford was granted Fairtrade City status.

History

Hereford was founded in around 700 AD and became the Saxon capital of West Mercia. The present Cathedral dates from the 12th century.

Nell Gwynne The mistress of King Charles II, was born in Hereford, and a street 'Gwynn Street' is named after her.

Local government

Historically the county town of Herefordshire. In 1974 Herefordshire was merged with Worcestershire to became part of the county of Hereford and Worcester. On April 1, 1998, Hereford and Worcester was abolished, and Herefordshire and Worcestershire were re-established as separate counties, although with slightly altered borders.

However, the new Herefordshire was a unitary authority and Hereford lost its district status. Charter Trustees were appointed to preserve mayoral traditions until a civil parish council could be set up in 2000.

External links

• Hereford City Council
• Hereford Cathedral
• Mappa Mundi