For the first time in over 80 years, someone is about to be locked up in Gnosall. Councillors Bob Middleton, Keith Parry and Mike Sullivan will be "thrown" into the Old Lock-Up on Sellman Street at 8pm on Thursday 16 July 2026, spending the night with straw bedding, candles and a bucket before being released at 7am the following morning.
How to get involved
Residents are being asked to sponsor the councillors' overnight stay. All money raised will go to community causes. You can pick up a sponsorship form at the Parish Council office or donate online at gnosallparishcouncil.gov.uk.
After their release, and provided enough funds have been raised, a "Break Out" Breakfast will be held at the Grosvenor Centre. Tickets are £5 and must be booked in advance. It's a chance to hear the councillors' stories straight from the cells. Members of Gnosall Heritage Group and the Gnosall Jambusters WI will also be on hand during the lock-in to share the building's history.
About the Old Lock-Up
Built around 1830 and designed by local builder and architect James Trubshaw using stone from Hollies Quarry, the Old Lock-Up is one of only three surviving in Staffordshire, the others being in Stafford town and the village of Alton.
It was originally sited opposite Gnosall Police Station on the corner of Stafford Road and Station Road, and has a fascinating history, which can be read on the Gnosall Parish Council link below.
The Lock-Up opened to the public for the first time in many years during the 2025 Heritage Open Day Festival. It will open again on 12 September 2026 from 10am to 12.30pm as part of this year's Heritage Festival.
Source: gnosallparishcouncil.gov.uk
