Awarded through HLF’s First World War: then and now programme, the project will focus on creating a Centenary event at Yate Heritage Centre, an exhibition on the history of the people of Yate and Sodbury during the First World War, and booklets on the First World War histories of people locally and nationally.

The projects will enable local people in the Yate area to come together to understand their history linked to the conflict through demonstrators, activities and performances at the Centenary History Day. The Centenary exhibition will draw upon the First World War collections, histories and artefacts of local people, and will be made possible by the efforts of local volunteers. Both Yate Heritage Centre and the U3A History Group are working with local people to bring their histories to life for the community and future generations.

The First World War had an immense impact on the Yate and Sodbury areas. The conflict brought modern industry to the area including the factories which dominated Yate during the 20th century. The display, booklets, history event and demonstrations will bring to life the most important parts of the area’s modern history to children, families and the remainder of the community for years to come.

Commenting on the award, Cherry Hubbard, Education Assistant at Yate and District Heritage Centre, said: “This is such a great boost to the work of the Heritage Centre and for bringing alive the First World War for local young people and the community at large.”

Elly Hoyle, Head of History at Brimsham Green School, commented: “As a school and wider community, it is incredibly important that this landmark anniversary is commemorated and that young people are given an opportunity to remember and reflect on the legacy of the First World War”

Nerys Watts, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund South West, said: “The impact of the First World War was far reaching, touching and shaping every corner of the UK and beyond. The Heritage Lottery Fund has already invested more than £57million in projects – large and small – that are marking this global Centenary. With our First World War programme, we are enabling even more communities like those involved in the Yate Area First World War Community Project to explore the continuing legacy of this conflict and help local people broaden their understanding of how it has shaped our modern world.”

Notes to editors

In the forthcoming months and beyond, Yate and District Heritage Centre will be working alongside South Gloucestershire Museums, the History Branch of the U3A, local schools, youth, history and community groups to ensure as many people as possible value and appreciate the history of the First World War.

We also have the support of Yate Town Council and South Gloucestershire Council in this work. Heidelberg Cement have also provided £250 for the Centenary event.

Key dates

• 26 July 2014 – First World War Centenary Day 10.30am to 4.30pm. Parade at 10am at Yate Heritage Centre. Centenary Service from 10.40am at St Mary’s lych gate by Reverend Ian Wallace, Rector of Yate. St Mary’s Church, White Lion Public House and the Royal British Legion
• 24 July to 13 September 2014 – First World War Centenary Exhibition. The history of Yate and Sodbury in First World War. Charting the effects of the Great War on local people and their stories and artefacts donated by local people for the display
• September 2014 – launch of the First World War in Yate and Sodbury booklet and the U3A First World War Centenary Booklet

Further information

David Hardill, Yate and District Heritage Centre, on tel: 01454 862 200 or email: yate.heritage@southglos.gov.uk.