Linton-on-Ouse was mentioned in the Domesday Book (as Luctone) but what happened before this date? What has happened since 1086 in this small Yorkshire village, now partly overshadowed by the noisy bustle of RAF Linton-on-Ouse? Some exciting glimpses into the past have been seen in this last year including fragments of Roman and Medieval Pottery and talk of a missing manor house.
 
Linton-on-Ouse History Group is excited to have received support from HLF to explore and collate the story of the village for the benefit of generations to come. This project is focused on collating the evidence of the past, increasing interest in our shared heritage, increasing local knowledge and pride, and leaving an enduring legacy. 

The project funded by HLF will enable Linton-on-Ouse History Group to gather information about the past (currently held in diverse sources) and use this to form a more coherent picture of the origins and development of the village. This will include collating details of items found to date, visiting historical archives, recording memories and furthering the work of the history group itself. To achieve our ambitions we are gathering a team of local volunteers; for many, this will be their first brush with history since 'O'-Level text books!  The task ahead is inspiring and could involve the whole village liaising to create an ‘information tapestry’ of the past. It will involve learning new skills and lead to new friendships – everyone can contribute something, large or small to add to the overall sum of knowledge, and we can all learn from each other.

Jan Jauncey, Chair of Linton-on-Ouse History Group, commented on the award: “This project is a tribute to the enthusiasm and determination of the current villagers and also the perseverance and interest of past villagers who instilled in us a pride and interest in where we live. The HLF grant gives us an exciting opportunity to work with everyone in the village, especially the school children, to create a lasting legacy detailing our heritage”.
 
Jon Kenny the Community Archaeologist from York Archaeological Trust is supporting the villages surrounding York and offering help to try and get a better picture of life in Yorkshire as a whole and how it has moulded present communities. He has offered to help the Linton-on-Ouse History Group explore the local finds by being part of one of their main events in the coming year.

Fiona Spiers, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “Sharing Heritage is a wonderful opportunity for communities to delve into their local heritage and we are delighted to be able to offer this grant so that the Linton-on-Ouse History group can embark on a real journey of discovery. Heritage means such different things to different people, and HLF’s funding offers a wealth of opportunities for groups to explore and celebrate what’s important to them in their area.”

Notes to editors

Linton-on-Ouse History Group is open to all and has an active and varied programme of events for all who have an interest in the roots of this community. The programme includes life in Roman Britain to medieval cookery, and the history of farm vehicles. The group is lively, friendly and all are welcome to join.

Further information

For further information see the Linton-on-Ouse History Group's Facebook page or send an email to info@lintonhistory.com.