Register

“TOMMY’S MAIL” – THE POSTAL SERVICE TO THE WESTERN FRONT IN THE GREAT WAR The postal system to the Western Front did not exist before the declaration of war in August 1914. The story tells of the huge logistical exercise to put a system in place and to get letters and parcels to the “Tommies” - much needed for the morale of the troops. Approx. 50 mins.

ORSON WRIGHT - “CHAMPION OF THE PEOPLE” The builder of South Wigston and many parts of Leicester! An amazing "rags to riches" story of a man influential in all areas of Leicester - and the story of his lasting legacy. From his early roots in Dunton Bassett to his grand houses in Wigston through his hard work and his vision of the needs of Leicestershire people. But not just a builder! Approx. 50 mins.

THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE 1914 The story of the truce starting from the outbreak of WW1 in August 1914, the recruitment of volunteer soldiers, and the days of entrenchment and life in the trenches leading up to the truce on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 1914. Approx. 45+ mins.

THE BOYS & GIRLS OF WORLD WAR 1 The stories of the underage volunteer soldiers in the Great War - some as young as 13! and the volunteer “VAD’s” – Voluntary Aid Detachment – nurses on the Western Front. Young boys and girls who volunteered in 1914 for their country for the conflict which was “Going to be over by Christmas!” Approx. 50 mins.

WIGSTON’S SIGNIFICANT BUILDINGS, BLUE PLAQUE AND CONSERVATION AREAS A virtual walk around Wigston on-screen covering over 300 years of building history, the stories on the people commemorated on the Blue Plaques, and the history of the Conservation Areas. Approx. 1 hour

STARTING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH How to get started on an “addictive” hobby. Start from scratch and then a guide through the various sources available – at local, national and international archives and the Internet. Approx. 45+ mins.

“LAWYER, PRIVATEER AND EXPLORER” 16TH CENTURY TO THE 21ST CENTURY - 500 YEARS OF GENEALOGY RESEARCH ! Approx 45 mins.

All talks £45 up to 5 miles from Leicester City Centre. Over 5 miles £50.

All talks are PowerPoint presentations with laptop & projector supplied.

E-Mail: [email protected]