What did you do in the War, Dudley ?

The free event, run by Dudley Council and supported SWG Construction, Pegasus and SF Harrison Roofing takes places on Sunday 30 June in the prestigious grounds of Himley Hall and Park.

The Friends of Dudley Archives and Local History Service will be showcasing two First World War projects, namely "The Lost and The Living" and "Dudley's Own WW1 Dad's Army" in the Hall as well as encouraging members of the public to contribute to their "What did you do in the War, Dudley. They’ll be in the hall all day which will be open from 11am until 4pm.

Afternoon tea will also be available in the hall at 2.30pm but this needs to be pre-booked. It includes ribbon sandwiches, scones with fruit conserve and cream, sweet pastries and tea or coffee. https://www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk/afternoontea

The free event runs from 11am to 4pm and offers fun for all the family, including a paintball gallery, a vintage military vehicle display and dance lesson taster sessions hosted by All About Swing.

In the park vintage and crafts will be on offer at Lily & Lolly’s Vintage & Craft Fayre, there will be ‘tea for the troops’ from a pop-up vintage tearoom as well as vintage fairground rides and Punch & Judy.

Cllr Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“There’s just over a week to go until Armed Forces Day and I hope people have it in their diaries as there’s so much to do.

“It’s a great day out for all ages, lots for children and families, and with the exhibitions by The Friends of Dudley Archives and Local History Service means that visitors can contribute to the day too.”

Veterans can have their veterans badges presented on the day but need to have applied for and received their badge before contacting Dudley Council in order to have them presented on the day. 

Anyone who has already received one of the badges but has not had it formally presented to them before can contact Dudley Council by emailing capa.admin@dudley.gov.uk or by calling 01384 818186 to participate in the ceremony.

The Friends of Dudley Archives and Local History Service was formed in 2001 with the aim of raising funds to acquire accessions for the Archives, and to provide assistance as volunteers in the Archives. We also organise projects and events including monthly talks in order to raise funds raise awareness of the Archives.