Volunteers wanted for World War II project

PRLog (Press Release) - Mar. 9, 2012 - Now for the first time thanks to Heritage Lottery Funding a two year project will bring the complete history of World War II in the New Forest to life.

‘There are over 280 World War II sites within the New Forest that we know about that include 12 airfields, mock submarine pens and the construction site for Mulberry Harbours on Beaulieu River and the remains of the D-Day embarkation at Lepe - but there is more to be discovered,’ said James Brown, World War II Project Manager. ‘We are asking people to look in their garages and lofts to see if they have any photographs or records. We are also asking anyone who remembers being stationed or evacuated in the New Forest to come forward and share their memories.

‘The team has already heard a number of anecdotal memories including someone who visited the target planes on Ashley Bombing Range to acquire bits for his model airplanes; and army officers having to be careful of rumoured spies around the Forest.

‘We are also looking for people to get involved and become volunteers. If you would be interested in recording the memories of the people who were in the New Forest during World War II or getting involved in field walking and surveying World War II structures and remains let us know.’

The New Forest Remembers: untold stories of World War II team will be at the New Forest National Park Authority’s Volunteer Fair at Lyndhurst Community Centre on Saturday 3 March from 10:30am - 4:00pm for those who are interested in learning more or who are keen to get involved.

If you are keen to become a volunteer in this project visit http://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/worldwarii/volunteering and complete an expression of interest form.

-ends-

Protect - Enjoy - Prosper

The New Forest National Park Authority’s statutory purposes are to:

■Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect
■Promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy.
We also have a duty to:

■Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities within the Park – Prosper.
The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and discovery.

The ‘New Forest remembers- untold stories of World War II’ is supported by a wide range of organisations including ExxonMobil and English Heritage both financially and through staff time.

Media Contacts:
Karen Evans-McDaid, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans-mcdaid@newforestnpa.gov.uk

# # #

The New Forest National Park lies mainly in south-west Hampshire; it is famous for its stunning landscapes,wildlife,coastline & picturesque villages. It is the eighth national park in England and the first in the south-east to be created for nearly 50yrs.