The Royal British Legion launched its official celebrations of Victory in Europe by inviting six decorated veterans to a tea party at London’s Ritz Hotel. The veterans were aged between 96 and 100. The RBL said poignantly, “This is one of the last major opportunities to say thank you to those who served and pay tribute to their courage and fortitude.”
With its Echoes for Valour exhibition commemorating both VE Day and VJ Day, Wymondham Heritage Museum is paying its own tribute to the local people who gave so much to the war effort.
The exhibition’s launch was reported in last month’s magazine and told how the display was the brainchild of museum volunteer Laura Osadciw. Laura was inspired by her partner Guy’s grandmother, Binda Urquhart, after she read letters and saw photographs of Binda’s contributions to the Second World War. Binda’s story is one of nine which form part of the display.
Binda had been accepted to study languages at Oxford, but, owing to the war, was forced to defer her place. She was recruited by the Special Operations Executive, a branch of military intelligence. Her war file is largely classified, but owing to Binda’s position in the main Baker Street offices and her salary increase, Laura believes she held an important role. Binda remained a member of the Special Forces Club until she passed away aged 92.
The museum’s exhibition looks at the town’s response when war was declared on September 1st 1939. The Urban District Council organised Air Raid Wardens, Home Guard, evacuee helpers, fire guards and the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service. There were blackout practices, Andersen and Morison shelters were built, as were ten large public trenches for 30 people. The museum has reconstructed an Andersen Shelter in the basement of The Bridewell. Visitors can see for themselves how people took refuge when the air raid siren went off.
Wymondham celebrated VE Day with the town covered with decorations and flags. There were parties, dances and bonfires were lit.
VJ Day is August 15th. The museum’s display also encompasses the war in the Far East. To coincide with the 80th anniversary, the August issue of the magazine will feature this part of the exhibition and tell some of the stories of local people and the sacrifices they made for the war effort.
Visit the museum to find out more about life in Wymondham during the Second World War and the part its citizens played in protecting the town and keeping the wheels turning. Information on opening times for the museum and the tearoom at thewhm.org.uk.
