Friends of Handforth Station have been working with a number of groups to remember some of the stories of Handforth, its station and its prisoner of war camp in World War 1.
Members have been researching the history, and have made contact with descendants of soldiers from Handforth and of German prisoners of war. The information they have gathered will be displayed at the station and at Honford Hall on Saturday 13th September.
A short service will also be held at Honford Hall, starting at 11.15am which will be followed by three further performances.
As part of their work at stations across Cheshire, Theatre in the Quarter have been invited to Handforth to present 'Over By Christmas', a choral commemoration of the departure of local soldiers to the Western Front in autumn 1914. This will happen at 12 noon, and again at 2pm on Saturday 13th September at Honford Hall. 'Over By Christmas' is a free event and part of the Imperial War Museum's First World War Centenary Project. People can either gather at the station or go direct to Honford Hall.
Andrew Backhouse explained "Featuring well-loved songs of the period, Over By Christmas captures the spirit of optimism and patriotism of those leaving their loved ones, perhaps never to see them again. A community choir of 'soldiers', 'nurses' and their families will recreate this poignant and historic moment, accompanied by live musicians."
Additionally, there will be a short brass quintet performance at 2.45pm.
Known descendants from Handforth WW1 soldiers and of German prisoners of war held in the Handforth POW Camp are travelling from Germany to attend the performances.
As part of the project, local schools have designed new flags and produced creative writings, both of which are on display at the station, and they will be attending special workshops before September 13th.
Mike Bishop, Chair of Friends of Handforth Station, said "We want to do something to remember WW1, to remind ourselves of the horrors of war, and also to remind ourselves of the friendships we now have with former enemies. By doing this, we hope Handforth people, especially children, will learn more of their history and build a greater sense of community too."
Sally Buttifant, Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership Officer added "This project is about remembering local people and the sacrifice that they made, and the journey that began at their local station. It's reminding people of the importance of the railway network and stations, as communities played their part in this world-changing event."
Friends of Handforth Station have been supported by Handforth Parish Council, Northern Rail, Manchester Crewe Community Rail Partnership, Association of Community Rail Partnerships, Contour Housing, Network Rail and many local businesses in arranging these events.
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The drama group were amazing and performed a moving and interesting performance.
Thank you to all involved.