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Something for the week ahead?
by David Henry14/ 4/2005
WHAT was it like to live in Stockport during the Second World
War? Well, visitors to the town's Hat Works Museum can find out
this spring as a major exhibition opens marking the 60th
anniversary of VE Day.
VE Day in the Hatting Town will explore what life was like in
Stockport as the war raged across Europe.
The exhibition will feature objects from Stockport Heritage
Services' collection, photographs from the Stockport Heritage
Library and loan items from the British Aerospace Heritage Centre
in Woodford.
The exhibition includes some fascinating items. Visitors will be
able to see "Churchill's Chair", a chair from an Avro York aircraft
converted for the use of the prime minister at the time.
Yorks were built as transport aircraft for troops and military
equipment.
Only three were converted for VIPs, the Governor General of
Australia and Lord Mountbatten had the other two. The Yorks were
built from 1942, and were made at Woodford, Stockport, in
1945-48.
Another interesting exhibit is a model of a Lancaster bomber. Every
day during the war, up to 17 Lancaster bombers were assembled at
Woodford's Avro factory. Local women worked long tiring shifts
riveting plane components together. Often a plane would be built by
4pm, then flown to a Royal Air Force base at 6pm, and be flying
above Belgium that evening.
The exhibition will allow visitors to step back in time to one of
the most momentous periods in British history.
VE Day in the Hatting Town opens at the Hat Works, Stockport, on
April 16. Admission is free.
GET ready for a party in the park
Gorton-style.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Sunny Brow Park, residents
will be holding a massive party tomorrow (Saturday).
Among the many highlights will be the unveiling of a plaque and the
planting of a spectacular new tree. Many people will be dressed in
Victorian and Edwardian costumes and there will be a host of
attractions, young and old, for people to enjoy.
The party starts at Sunny Brow Park, Gorton, at 11am on Saturday
April 16.
EXPERIENCE the past at Tatton Park. The grand
Cheshire stately home is holding two events this weekend inviting
people to go back to the future.
Tatton Living History Society will recreate the atmosphere of a
Victorian household in the mansion. The "gentry" will partake in
their sedentary way of life, taking afternoon tea, playing cards,
and enjoying a bit of crochet.
And at the Old Hall people can re-visit Medieval times by learning
to longbow. An introductory lesson in archery is being held,
allowing visitors to learn a new skill and hit the target.
Booking for the Longbow is essential. Both events take place this
Sunday.
For more information call 01625 534400
THE glamorous world of fashion is coming to the Trafford Centre
this weekend as visitors get a sneak look at the spring and summer
collections.
Tomorrow (Saturday) a funky dance fashion show showcasing the
latest trends from retailers at the centre will take place at The
Orient.
On Sunday a more contemporary show with classic and established
brand names will be held, featuring some of the leading designer
brands at the centre.
TAKE a look around Lyme Park's beautiful gardens
this Sunday and raise money for a great cause.
The gardens at the Disley country estate will be open in aid of The
National Gardens Scheme.
It raises money for charities by opening gardens across the
country. There are 3,000 gardens involved in the scheme, which has
been going since 1927.
At Lyme Park you'll be able to follow in the footsteps of Mr Darcy
and walk around one of the most popular gardens in Britain.
The NGS Open Day takes place on Sunday April 17. Admission is
priced £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. Normal admission
charges apply.
For more information contact 01663 762 023.
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