WW1 project inspires youngsters
More than 400 schoolchildren are receiving help with their family history research thanks to a new project.
Educational charity Making History, founded by actor Colin McFarlane, has been working with 15 schools in Lincoln and London to enable students to trace their links to the First World War.
As well as support from websites MyHeritage and Findmypast, the children are being given one-to-one advice from mentors including Neil Fraser from Heir Hunters and former Who Do You Think You Are? genealogist Dr Nick Barratt.
Participants are also making short films based on their findings, with the three best from each school being shown at local screenings. Highlights from those will then be taken to the British Film Institute in London, where they will be shown later this year.
“Generally, the average age of someone researching their family history is 55,” said Colin McFarlane, best known for his role as Commissioner Loeb in the Batman film series. “This project rips up that statistic by involving the whole family and empowers and inspires children to follow their dreams.
“Understanding where you come from is vital for a sense of belonging, and sharing these discoveries helps break down barriers between class, cultures and generations – connecting us all.”