New Forest remembers- untold stories of World War II wins Heritage Lottery Fund support

Oct. 26, 2011 - PRLog -- The project will carry out essential archaeological surveying of part of the New Forest National Park including an airborne infra-red LiDAR survey (light detection and ranging), mapping work and field surveys. These will record World War II archaeological sites and their conservation needs.
Volunteers will be recruited and an outreach programme will be designed to engage local communities, groups and organisations. Teaching resources and educational activities will also be developed to link World War II archaeology with the National Curriculum.

On the ground a range of new information and outreach materials will show visitors the important part the New Forest and its people played during the war.
Stuart McLeod, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in the South East, said: ‘The New Forest holds many clues to the stories of World War II and how it impacted on the communities in the area. With this grant, volunteers will not only expand their knowledge and learn lots of new skills, but it will also provide a unique record of the area for others to learn from, enjoy and be inspired by for generations to come.’
Julian Johnson, Chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority, added: ‘We’re delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us this grant. The Second World War changed the New Forest forever. It played a vital role and it is important that we have an accurate picture both on the ground and through people’s memories and experiences of this unprecedented period of history.’

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Notes to Photo Editor:
1.   A Lockheed P38 Lightning in a blister hanger at Stoneycross

Notes to editors
* The HLF grant to the project New Forest Remembers – Untold Stories of WWII is for £551,100 (73% of project costs) and is a second-round pass, which means it is a confirmed award.
About the Heritage Lottery Fund
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported over 30,000 projects, allocating £4.7billion across the UK, including £462million to over 3220 projects in the South East alone. Website www.hlf.org.uk
About the New Forest National Park Authority
Protect - Enjoy - Prosper
The New Forest National Park Authority’s statutory purposes are to:
   Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect
   Promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy.

We also have a duty to:
•   Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities within the Park – Prosper.

The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and discovery.
Visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk to find out more.

The ‘New Forest remembers- untold stories of World War II’ is supported by a wide range of organisations including ExxonMobil and English Heritage both financially and through staff time.
Media Contacts:
Karen Evans-McDaid, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans-mcdaid@newforestnpa.gov.uk

Vicky Wilford, HLF Press Office
Tel: 020 7591 6046 / 07973 401937
Email vickyw@hlf.org.uk.

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The New Forest National Park lies mainly in south-west Hampshire; it is famous for its stunning landscapes,wildlife,coastline & picturesque villages. It is the eighth national park in England and the first in the south-east to be created for nearly 50yrs.