Festival will mark launch of village’s heritage trail
DESFORD will take a big step back in time this summer, with a history festival celebrating the launch of a fascinating heritage trail.
The village will be divided into time zones, from the Middle Ages, to the world wars, with the help of musicians, actors and entertainers, over the weekend of July 2 and 3.
The festival will officially launch a heritage trail around the historic village.
Comprised of 16 heritage boards showcasing aspects of Desford’s history , the project is a joint initiative by two community groups, Desford and District Local History Society and Desford in Bloom. It has taken nearly five years to get off the ground, from funding to fruition.
Desford Parish Council chairman Colin Crane, said: “The completion of the heritage trail is such a fantastic achievement. It will really connect residents and allow them to discover so much more about their village.”
Local history society member Kate Twitchin has led the project from the start and devised the idea for a festival weekend.
She said: “I have lived in the village most of my life and having the opportunity to share its history has been a privilege.
“We are so lucky to live in a place where its origins stretch so far back in time. That deserves to be celebrated and preserved.
“The festival will provide the perfect opportunity to unveil the trail to the public and to put on the biggest celebration of Desford’s history that it has ever seen.”
Dozens of community groups, including churches, schools, pubs, shops and other businesses are involved with the staging of the festival.
Desford parish councillor and member of Desford in Bloom, Pat Crane, said: “Desford has had many new residents during the pandemic who have not been able to experience what our village has to offer.
“This is a unique opportunity to do just that - showcasing all community groups and celebrating residents’ shared heritage.”
Festival attractions will include medieval sword fighting and a look at life in a Victorian classroom.
A 1940s night at the Caterpillar Sports and Social Club on Saturday, July 2 will feature Vera Lynn tribute act Jill Daniels.
For further details about the festival and the heritage trail, see: