A Musical Evening with sounds of the 1940’s

Wolverley Camp Memorial Dedication Sunday 29th June, 2008.

"Press Release"
 
“They say that if you wish hard enough, your dreams will come true, but in the case of one Wolverley resident, it has taken a lot more than wishes to make his dream reality - but that is due to happen on the 29th June 2008.
 
For many years now, Wolverley resident Mike Webster has been researching the history of the former Wolverley camp, on the site of the current Brown Westhead Park, today used as a caravan site and sports fields.
 
‘Several years ago I had a serious heart illness, and had to give up work’ said Mike. ‘As a hobby, I decided to delve into the history of the camp, which I remember from my childhood, having lived in the area. The more I discovered, the more I wanted to know, and I have spoken to many people over the years to discover the facts, on both sides of the Atlantic.”
 
In fact Mike’s hobby started to take over his life, and some time ago set up a web site dedicated to the camp - (www.wolverleycamp.org.uk) and has given many local talks on the subject as well as write many articles.
 
‘My main interest was the period after the camp was built (in 1942) and opened in 1943 as the 52nd General Hospital for the American Army. Originating from Syracuse, New York the hospital was used for American troops injured in the European theatre of operations in World War Two, and the men and women who served at the hospital contributed to the pioneering of some innovative medical procedures, that played a great and full part in the eventual allied victory in Europe.’
 
After discovering these amazing facts, Mike thought that it was a shame if this important history were to be lost to the villagers of Wolverley in years to come, and had the personal dream of erecting an official memorial to commemorate the achievements of the physicians, nurses, other medical and military staff, British employees, American Red Cross workers, and British Civilian volunteers, who all made the hospital such an important strategic hospital base in the Second World War - known as “The Fightin’ 52nd”
 
Over the last few years, Mike has worked tirelessly to both obtain official permission from church authorities and American officials to erect the memorial, and has raised much needed funds with contributors from both the U.K. and America.
 
‘My connections in America have raised a considerable amount of money towards the project, and some are travelling over for the dedication ceremony in June,’ added Mike, ‘which plans to be a special weekend for the residents of Wolverley.’
 
The celebration kicks off on the Saturday night with an event at the Queens Head in Wolverley, where there will be entertainment and a BBQ, and organisers are hoping that many of those attending will wear War time costumes, to help create a Forties atmosphere.
 
The main event, however, takes place on the afternoon of Sunday June 29th, at St John the Baptist Church in Wolverley, which will be preceded by a parade from the Memorial Hall. This will be led by a host of Standards representing the British Legion, Scouts, Guides, Brownies and Cubs, the West Mercia Police and other military organisations. The exact timing of the service and dedication has yet to be confirmed, due to the timing of the highlight of the afternoon, a fly past over the village of a Spitfire and Hurricane of the “R.A.F. Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.” www.bbmf.co.uk
 

 
The afternoon will be rounded off with refreshments at the Memorial Hall, where guests will be entertained with forties song and music, with a performance by the very popular Wolverley W.I. choir.
 
‘The whole event promises to be an excellent day and is open for anyone to attend,” continued Mike. “There are a lot of costs involved, and although we have most of the funding for the memorial itself, we still need further donations. We are also seeking donations towards the cost of the other events, so if anyone feels able to help, please contact me.’
 
Among the small group of people assisting Mike in organising the event is former Wolverley Councillor Nigel Addison. ‘I know Mike has been talking about this memorial for many years, and was present at a meeting when he first discussed his idea with Dr Richard Taylor, M.P. and I am delighted that his dream is soon to be reality. I would like to pay tribute to Mike and his wife Lynne, because I know how hard they have worked, for this dream to be a reality, and I am proud to be playing a small part in helping Mike make this a great success, which is what he deserves. Well done Mike.’

N.C. Big Swing Band and Singers