Donington

Donington, a small village in Shropshire, England, has a history that stretches back to at least the medieval period. It is situated near RAF Cosford, which has significantly influenced the area, particularly during the 20th century. Here’s an overview of Donington’s history, including its connection to RAF Cosford:

Early History

The parish of Donington was recorded in the Domesday book as “Donitone”. The origins of Donington are not entirely clear, but it is likely to have been established in the Anglo-Saxon period. The name “Donington” is thought to derive from an Old English personal name, “Dunning,” and the suffix “-ton,” which means a settlement or farmstead. The village was likely a small rural community centered around agriculture, as was typical for villages in medieval England.

Medieval and Early Modern Period

During the medieval period, Donington would have been part of a larger feudal estate. The village likely had a church, with evidence suggesting there was a church on the site of the present-day St. Cuthbert’s Church. Over the centuries, the area would have grown slowly, maintaining its agricultural roots.

St. Cuthbert’s Church in Donington is over 900 years old. It was founded by Roger de Montgomery. The old church tower had collapsed on 25 March 1879, and was rebuilt in 1880. Different parts of the church are from different eras. For example, the lower part of the tower was built in the 12th Century, whereas other parts of the building were built in the 17th and 18th centuries.

This Church is a grade II listed building and has been since 26 September 1984.

19th Century Developments

The 19th century saw changes in both the local economy and infrastructure. The development of the railway network in the mid-1800s brought some modernization to Shropshire, but Donington itself remained relatively small and rural. The village’s economy was still based primarily on farming, though it would have had some minor industrial activity in line with wider trends in the area.

RAF Cosford and 20th Century Changes

The most significant development in the area came in the 20th century with the establishment of RAF Cosford, which is located just a few miles from Donington. RAF Cosford was first opened in 1938, initially serving as an aircraft storage and maintenance base. The outbreak of World War II saw the base’s role expand as it became a training site for RAF personnel, as well as a place for the repair and maintenance of aircraft.

With the presence of RAF Cosford, Donington saw an increase in military traffic and an influx of workers and servicemen. The area underwent some modernization, with more housing and infrastructure developed to support the base and its personnel. Cosford became a key site in Britain’s air defense strategy during the Cold War and beyond, with its role shifting over time toward aircraft preservation and training.

Post-War Era and Today

Since the mid-20th century, Donington has remained a relatively quiet village, though its proximity to RAF Cosford has meant that it has had some impact from the base’s activities. The nearby RAF museum, housed at Cosford, has further raised the profile of the area as a center of aviation history. While the base is still operational, it has been scaled back in some areas, with the focus shifting to specialized training and preservation.

Donington remains a peaceful village today, with a strong local community. It is a charming rural area with scenic views, although its historical connection to RAF Cosford still lingers, particularly in the context of the nearby museum and the airfield’s ongoing role in the local economy and culture.

Key Features

  • St. Cuthbert’s Church: A historic site in the village, offering a glimpse into the medieval past of Donington.
  • RAF Cosford: A major feature of the surrounding area, providing historical and contemporary significance, particularly for those interested in aviation history.
  • The RAF Museum Cosford: Located near the airbase, the museum is dedicated to preserving the history of aviation and military aircraft, showcasing the close relationship between the village and the base.

Though Donington remains a small village today, its proximity to RAF Cosford and its place in Shropshire’s agricultural history give it a unique blend of military and rural heritage.

Parish Council

Donington Parish Council, established in 1894, served as the governing body for the village of Donington near Albrighton, overseeing local issues and providing a voice for the community. In 1966, Donington Parish Council merged with Boscobel Parish Council to form the Donington with Boscobel Parish Council. This merger was intended to create a more cohesive local governance structure, facilitating improved management of resources and services for both areas. The newly formed council continued to serve the interests of both Donington and Boscobel residents, helping to foster a stronger community connection.