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.
