Members of the Women's Land Army cutting a tree. Courtesy Dean Heritage Centre

Dean Heritage Centre in Gloucestershire is appealing to people who lived through World War Two to share their memories and become part of a new exhibition and resource about life at the time.

The project is being funded by a Their Past Your Future (TPYF) phase two grant. Now in its second phase the initiative focuses on encouraging innovative and creative community learning and understanding of conflict.

Cinderford ARP. Courtesy Dean Heritage Centre

Special significance is placed by TPYF on increasing young people's understanding of the war and its impact on the UK today. Keeping this in mind pupils from Whitecross School in Lydney, Gloucestershire, were invited by the centre to help create the exhibition.

“We wish to create a representation of life at that time,” said Sarah Fuller, Dean Heritages Centre’s education officer.

“We want be able to see life through the eyes of those who lived during what was arguably one of the most significant periods in history, any and all first hand memories would be valuable to us.”

Those who share their memories, will also be invited to speak to young people about their experiences, if they wish. It is hoped sharing such memories will give the next generation a unique insight into life during World War Two.

Mitcheldean Home Guard. Courtesy Dean Heritage Centre

Dean Heritage Centre hopes to create a professional exhibition which will be available on loan to community groups and organisations, providing learning opportunities and sparking an interest in this truly historic period amongst a greater audience.

Whether you were a child during the war, on active service or doing your bit on the home front, the centre is keen to emphasise that all memories would be useful in establishing a comprehensive picture of life at the time.

To share your memories phone Sarah Fuller at, 01594 822170 or email her at sarahf@deanheritagemuseum.com.