Ron Miles

Ronald is a local 'Shropshire lad' with very close ties to the villages of Jackfield and Coalport. He began his career in the works canteen at Coalbrookdale during World War II (when the works were occupied by Fisher & Ludlow, making components for aircraft). He went on to serve in the Guards before pursuing a career as a chiropodist. In 1968 he was one of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust's first volunteers and has proudly been a great supporter of the Museum ever since. He was also one of the volunteers who helped to restore the Hay Inclined Plane, the world-famous industrial monument at Blists Hill Victorian Town. He has been a 'Friends of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums' Guide for very many years, and still continues to train new guides, including our next generation of younger guides. He has lectured on the history of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site to many groups and has been an avid supporter of the Broseley Historical Society over a long period. He is also a 'model citizen' in and around Jackfield - he is a volunteer litter picker in the village, as well as a great supporter and fundraiser for St. Mary's Church. Ron is a loyal supporter of the Royal British Legion. Ron has also undertaken many fundraising challenges over the years, including abseiling and he recently walked on hot coals as a fundraising stunt for a local charity. Above all, he is a 'character', whose involvement in this wonderful event would appeal to a large number of local people.