New enclosures could see William Shakespeare's fortune fall.

The playwright recently bought from William Combe 107 acres of land in the open fields on the edge of town. A few other towsfolk own up to 15 acres. If current rumours are true, they are all likely to be affected by Combe's plans to enclose some of his remaining open fields, so that he can step up his livestock farming. Many fear their lands will simply be swept up.

The Corporation will oppose enclosure. Town Clerk Thomas Greene has listed those with an interest in Combe's land.