Do you have a World War One story to share?

VOLUNTEERS for the community project, Melksham Remembers, are collecting stories about Melksham during World War One and want to hear from anyone with information to share.

Project coordinator, Beth Thomas  said, “Melksham Remembers is a community engagement project focusing on exploring what life was like in the Melksham Community Area during World War 1.

“The project has around 16 volunteers who are exploring in the archives at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre in Chippenham and online. They have been looking at the lives of the people who went to war and those who stayed behind to support the war effort.

“One volunteer has focused on exploring the school log books which each headmaster had to complete each day. This has provided a fascinating insight into how life was affected by the first ‘world’ war.

“The volunteers meet monthly to share updates and find out what everyone has been working on. We have also made contact with community groups in Broughton Gifford, Steeple Ashton, Semington and Seend.  Since our last update we have held reminiscence sessions at Blenheim House, worked with the Rainbows, Brownies and Guides of Melksham and talked to the Friendship Club at Broughton Gifford. If you or your group would like to hear about the Melksham Remembers project, please contact the project coordinator Beth Thomas at hello@melkshamremembers.org.uk

“Our volunteers are now thinking about an exhibition planned for the Remembrance weekend where they will be able to share the stories that they have discovered and the lives of the people that they have been exploring.

“Before then, there will be a family event in Melksham Library on 29th May from 2pm – 4.30pm where Ben Welbourne of the mobile museum, will be showing objects from the First World War and volunteers will be on hand to tell you the stories that they have discovered. We are still looking for family stories from the community and we will be able to record your story on the day. The event will be free and family-friendly.

“The project is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Melksham Town Council and Melksham Area Board.”