These latest awards take HLF investment in commemorating the First World War in the East of England to over £2.3million pounds.

Four projects in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Essex will explore life on the Home Front, look at the little known role of British soldiers in Siberia, and explore the impact of the Battle of the Somme on local communities. Volunteers and local people will be at the heart of all four projects. 

The four projects being supported are:

• From St Neots to Siberia – Longsands Academy
• Never Forget – Southend Choirs
• Tommy’s Footprints – Ampthill Town Council
• Seeing it Through – Pins and Feathers Productions CIC

[quote=Robyn Llewellyn, Head of HLF East of England]"We're pleased to support these four communities to explore the continuing legacy of the conflict."[/quote]

Robyn Llewellyn, Head of HLF East of England, said: “The impact of the First World War was far-reaching, affecting/shaping every corner of the UK and beyond. In the year we mark the Centenary of such significant moments as the Easter Rising, the Battle of the Somme, and the Battle of Jutland, we’re pleased to support these four communities to explore the continuing legacy of the conflict and help local young people in particular to broaden their understanding of how it has shaped the modern world."

Discover the First World War with HLF

Since April 2010, HLF has awarded over £81m to more than 1,560 First World War projects across the UK, and we are still encouraging applications from groups in the East of England wishing to explore and commemorate the history of the war in their community.

If you would like to find out more, we are holding an event at Hertfordshire University on the 19 November, 1.30pm – 4.30pm, where you can hear about other projects and find out how HLF can help with your project idea. Please email Sally Page for more information.

To find out more about HLF’s work relating the the Centenary of the First World War follow us on Twitter and keep an eye on the hashtag #understandingWW1.