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Do you remember the Second World War in Manchester? Or would you like to read about the memories of those who do? Manchester Library and Information Service, based on interviews with those who lived through the experience, have published a new, lavishly illustrated book. The project has been part of the Valuing Older People programme and the book is based on a series of interviews organised by project manager Ken Howarth, working for Manchester City Council.

It includes true-life stories of the blackout, rationing, evacuation, and attacks by the Luftwaffe with one vivid account of a German plane flying down Oxford Road towards the Central Library. There are many accounts of the horrors of the Manchester Blitz in December 1940. Besides the tragedies and the hardship, there are stories of bravery and camaraderie too. Manchester was host to refugees from Europe, and later in the war was filled with American GIs.

The book also recounts memories of the end of the war, with street parties and official celebrations of VE and VJ Days.

The book is illustrated with many photographs of the time, taken from the collections of Manchester Archives and Local Studies. Copies of the book can be bought for £5 from major Manchester City Council Libraries, and other selected outlets. Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council Val Stevens, said: "Manchester has undertaken this worthwhile project with Ken Howarth to record and preserve the city’s history. There have been some real eye-opening accounts and revelations from residents of Manchester and these are now accessible for all to read. It is important to record them so that future generations can learn about the Second World War and the role Manchester and its residents played."

For further information, please contact Manchester Archives and Local Studies on 0161 234 1979.

Media contact
Margaret Blackburn, Tel: 0161 234 4014