Remembering the fallen in new book
MEMBERS of two local history groups have published a book containing the names of fallen soldiers from four villages.
Compiled by past and present members of Newbold Verdon and District History Group, with input from Desford and District local History Society, its 96 pages have details of the 45 men from Barlestone, Botcheston, Desford and Newbold Verdon who lost their lives as a consequence of their service to the country.
The idea was to give more life to the names that are read out at the four war memorials each Remembrance Day.
From research to publication, the book has taken around two years to complete, from receiving the initial printing quotation to forming a planning group, and making decisions such as selling price, print run and launch date and publicity.
Not Forgotten: First World War Fallen Remembered in Four West Leicestershire Villages was launched bin Newbold Verdon library recently.
Vice Chairman of Newbold Verdon and District’s History Group, Colin Lester, helped in the editing department.
He said: “Editing a multiauthor work for a coherent tone isn’t easy, especially where the amount of material for each entry differs widely.
“Putting the book together was difficult on occasion and took more time than expected, but proved successful, with about 85 advance orders received, many prepaid.”
The first launch included displays from several people, as well as a locally-made cake to offer to those intrigued by the book, with a second launch at Desford Library. Money from the sales will go to both Newbold Verdon and Desford Library, and some to Hinckley and District Museum - where copies will also be on sale, any remaining funds will support the two history groups who helped to make the publication a success.
Not Forgotten costs £6 and can also be bought at Newbold Verdon Library.
For more details contact Colin at colinlester42@gmail.com.