THE LIFETIME memories of care home residents in Southam have been preserved for posterity thanks to a group of sixth formers from Princethorpe College.
The students interviewed nine residents of Tithe Lodge, recorded their stories and wrote up their memoirs on their behalf.
Their stories have will now live forever in a book alongside their personal photographs.
It was part of the Me Project, co-ordinated by Stratford Literary Festival, sponsored by Orbit Homes, and in partnership with Warwickshire Library Service.
David Constable, whose memoirs tell of his life as one of 22 children, was interviewed by students Eleanor Makepeace and Jade Swan. He said: “Over the years I have done a lot of charity work. It’s been really nice to meet Eleanor and Jade and to share my life with them.”
Betty McKay, who shared her experiences of growing up in wartime with student Hannah Owens, said: “Hannah has been such a patient girl. Of course, I did have to censor some of my memories, but there were still plenty of interesting stories left to tell!”
Former soldier Derek Haden, who spoke with student Hannah Porter, said: “This is the first time I have spoken of some of the events in my life.” Hannah added: ”It has been amazing to hear Derek’s tales.”
Olga Baskerville, who shared her wartime memories with Maddie Downey, said: “I am not good on dates now, but when I look back the memories are really clear. Maddie has been wonderful to talk to.” Maddie added: “I have really enjoyed talking to Olga. Hearing about her life has brought the Second World War vividly to life.”
Princethorpe College’s assistant head of sixth form Rod Isaacs said it had been a privilege to be a part of the Me Project.
He said: “It has benefited our pupils tremendously. I could see that our sixth formers were genuinely attentive and interested in the many rich memories and experiences that someone, often 70 years their senior, was sharing with them.
“When you read through these memoirs in their final printed form, it is really very moving and inspiring.”
The students and care home residents met up again to be presented with copies of the finished memoir books by festival director Annie Ashworth.
She said it was important to share stories with future generations.
She added: “The residents at Tithe Lodge have a huge amount to give. Their lives have included many incredible experiences and they have so many stories to tell.
“Princethorpe’s students have shown such interest and commitment to the project and it has really encouraged the residents to open up and share their memories.
“The finished memoirs are a marvellous read and for posterity we have also presented copies to the Warwickshire archives.”
The 12th Stratford Literary Festival will take place from April 28 to May 5. Visit www.stratlitfest.co.uk for more information.
