This year is the 75th Anniversary of the end of World War II and we at the Heritage Centre had, like many others around the country, planned to Commemorate the event through gatherings, talks and displays. Sadly, the current situation prevents this from happening, but that does not take away the need to recognise the extraordinary lengths which many ordinary Darwen folk went to in defeating the enemy at the time.

We have been gathering photos and information from many sources over the last few years and must thank all those who have contributed by sharing their stories with us and now, through these pages, we are going to share those stories with you. The purpose is to ensure that future generations may understand and learn from the experiences of our ancestors who found a way through adversity.

At the moment we are going through some dark times and people are finding life is full of trials but in the words of one beacon who shines in everyone’s memory – Captain Tom – “Tomorrow will be much better, tomorrow will be a good day”. There are some stories here that are difficult for us to comprehend and for those who went through the experience at the time there must have been moments of utter despair. Nevertheless, they came through it and triumphed in the end as we shall do in our current situation.

If, after visiting the following pages, you feel that you can contribute further material then please contact us at the Darwen Heritage Centre.
To view the different years please click on the button for that year. All the years are now live so enjoy looking at the photographs and remembering all those who gave their lives for us.