Cradley Great War Memorial Restored
Midland Film and Art group were welcomed by the Committee of Cradley Sports and Social Club when they presented a new framed photograph of Joseph Tranter to the club yesterday, 13th April 2015 as part of a Heritage Lottery Funded project.
Joseph Tranter was a founder member of the former Liberal Club in Colley Lane, Cradley and was the first man from Cradley to die during the Great War 1914 – 1918. He had been a reservist with the South Wales Borderers and was among the first to be called up to serve when war broke out with Germany. Sadly within the very first weeks Joseph died in action during a bayonet skirmish on September 26th, 1914 at Vendresse, France and has no known grave.
In his honour an enlarged photograph of him enclosed in a gold mount and oak frame with the inscription “Died for King and Country” was hung in the club’s premises. However, following a roof leak at the club the memorial had been severely water damaged and Midland Film and Art stepped in with an offer to recreate the photograph in a new frame as part of the Cradley Memorials Heritage Project.
Cradley Sports & Social Club plan to re-install the memorial within the entrance to the club and Chairman, Mr Peter Carpenter, said, “When the original photograph was damaged we felt that part of the club’s heritage had been lost forever. But now, thanks to Heritage Lottery funding and local film and art enthusiasts who were determined to preserve our history, we have regained a cherished memory of a founder member to inspire future generations”.
Heritage Lottery Fund
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) aims to make a lasting difference for heritage, people and communities across the UK and help build a resilient heritage economy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported almost 36,000 projects with £5.9bn across the UK www.hlf.org.uk
Contact: Midland Film And Art on 07792 192616 or email to info@mfaa.co.uk.
Regards
Harry Bloomer Secretary, Midland Film And Art T: 01384 635969