Childhood memories could colour history

RESIDENTS are being invited to reveal their earliest memories as historians prepare to use an unusual method to chronicle Axbridge's past.Royal charters and medieval scrolls have helped reveal Axbridge's rich history but now the town's more recent history could be retold by voices of the people who lived it.The archaeological and local history society wants as many people as possible to take part in the Axbridge Oral History Project. Residents' memories will be recorded on tape and filed in the town's archive.Co-ordinator Harry Mottram said: "Oral histories help us to understand the social history of a community through the recollections of its residents. For the historians of the future, their histories are like gold dust."People who used to know the town can still have memories as sharp as a knife and recall how times were when they were young."These may seem to them insignificant, inaccurate and trivial. However, they add colour and depth to history."The proposed project will systematically record the memories of the most senior members of our community, but will also include people of all ages."Over the years the project will become a vital part of the town's archives meaning Axbridge will no longer only be known for its royal charters and famed buildings, but for the voices of its people."To make the project happen we need volunteers to help. If you can type, take portrait photographs of the participants, interview people, collect or have interesting photos and other factual information to donate, have IT knowledge, can attend meetings, have an interest in sourcing grants for such projects, then we would like to hear from you."Plus if you know of someone who is very elderly and whose voice must be heard urgently then we need to hear from you now."* The project's first meeting will take place from 7.30pm on October 17 in the town council's chamber in the Town Hall. For more details call Mr Mottram on 01934 732670, or Paul Passey on 01934 733373.