Wednesday 10 September 2014

Stephen Metcalfe MP offers open invitation to visit World War I exhibition

Local MP Stephen Metcalfe has today invited members of the public to visit the First World War commemorative project “ Forget Never, Oublier Jamais, Vergessen Niemals” that will be launched at The Green Centre, Wat Tyler Country Park on Saturday 27th September.

Stephen said: “I launched this collaborative project in Parliament earlier in the year and have since been working with Basildon Heritage Group and others to create a truly memorable local exhibition that will stand as a reminder of the sacrifices made 100 years ago.”

“The unique nature of this project, as recognised by the Lottery Heritage Fund who have awarded us over £50,000, is that it also brings together Basildon with our two Twin Towns of Meaux in France and Heiligenhaus in Germany to create a mobile, tri-lingual exhibition. Over the next four years the exhibition will grow as it travels to France and Germany as well as all corners of the Borough.”

He continued: “It will explore life in the three townships; attitudes from three points of view and, most importantly, allow us to remember the people – those who died, those who suffered incredible injuries and of course those who survived and kept the communities running during this important period in our history.”

“Local schools have been putting together some work for display as have other community groups and organisations. Basildon Heritage have spent the last two years researching facts and information about local people who fell during the conflict one hundred years ago and there will be material from surrounding area archives and historical groups.”

Stephen finished: “We all have a duty to learn of the experiences of those who live through the perils of war and this project will be an excellent way to do this for people of all ages. There are plenty of ways for people to contribute, and I encourage people of all ages to do so. Most importantly, I encourage everyone to come along on the day and not miss the chance to get involved in this unique event for the local area”.

The exhibition will be open between 11am and 5pm at the Green Centre of Wat Tyler Country Park. People can keep up to date with this event and many more opportunities to engage with the history of the war by visiting the project’s website at  http://forgetnever1418.blogspot.co.uk/ or can contacting the Project Manager Lisa Smith on 07970 332 097.