Wyre Forest Historical Research Group

The theme of the Day is "Wyre Forest in the 20th Century" and speakers will include Peter Picken, who was awarded the Queens Police Medal, talking about Life in the Police Force in this area in the 20th century; Bob Fleming, former Officer to the Town Mayor of Kidderminster, who will describe life in the Mayor's office; Rosemary Winnall, awarded the MBE for her conservation work who will describe how the Wyre Forest has evolved; Dave Laverty, former Head of History at King Charles 1 School, Kidderminster who will share stories from the pocket book and diaries of Private Walter Willetts during World War 1 which he hopes to have published and, last but not least, John Pearsall a former fire-fighter from Stourbridge, Worcester and Kidderminster Fire Stations who will relay the experiences of fire-fighters during the last century under the descriptive title "Down the Pole and Up the Ladder". A number of the speakers will be displaying relevant memorabilia alongside a display presented by group members which includes memorabilia from WW1. Those attending will also be given the opportunity to purchase books written and published by group members. Norman Broadfield, Chairman of the Group, commented "The Wyre Forest District has a rich history and our programme for the History Day reflects that with a wide variety of presentations". The cost of the History Day is £8 for non-members, £6 for members and £4 for students. Numbers are limited to 80 and advance booking is absolutely essential. Attendees on the day will be at liberty to come and go at will to as many of the talks as they wish. Programmes/booking forms can be obtained by telephoning Moira Brown on 01562 756903 and at libraries and other venues in the area. The closing date for receipt of booking forms is April 9.