Cheltenham’s new WW1 commemorative website launches

Information about the year-long programme of commemorative events as wells as projects such as restoration work to the borough’s war memorials can all be found on the new website which can be easily navigated using a mobile phone or tablet.

The new website also gives the opportunity for residents to share the stories of their family members who gave so much, and the council is very keen to encourage people to get in touch and tell these stories.

Mark Sheldon, director of projects, says: “This new and easy to use website gives another voice to those men and women who sacrificed so much. We’ve already heard some wonderful stories from a variety of backgrounds and we’d love to hear more. We’d encourage anyone with a story to share it via the website www.cheltenhamremembers.org.uk ‘Tell Us your Story’.

“We would also like to thank Zoe, our web designer, for her enthusiasm, hard work and professionalism working with us to create this new website.”

WW1 website designer, Zoe Smith, said: “I was delighted to be asked to develop this website as it not only contributes towards my degree, but it was an excellent opportunity to expand my portfolio and has been a challenging, yet rewarding, learning experience. 

“My focus was to have a clear and responsive design which audiences can engage with. The best features include the events calendar, enabling anyone to download event details into their online calendar. Another great feature is the interactive memorials map which plots locations and details of WW1 memorials around Cheltenham. Don’t forget to browse for more features and content as there is a wealth of great resources available.

“I really hope that the website will encourage everyone to get involved with the year of commemorative events and share their stories. It’s been a privilege to undertake this responsibility and I look forward to seeing how the project progresses.”

The next commemorative Cheltenham Remembers event is ‘A chronicle of war work’ exhibition at Cheltenham Ladies College Parabola Arts Centre, which runs from 14 to 25 May.
This free exhibition tells the story of the contribution of the staff and pupils of Cheltenham Ladies College to the war effort, both on the home front and on the front line.

Cheltenham’s WW1 Commemoration events and activities have been made possible thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Cheltenham Borough Council.

The council would also like to thank university journalism students Beya Kabelu, Joe Tucker, Rebecca Iles, Claudia Dunn and Mel Etheridge for their help with the site content.

For media enquiries contact Laura Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 264154 or email [email protected]