THE Reminiscence Project at Crediton Library is set to enter a new phase, thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

The funding, made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, will allow the library to continue gathering and preserving memories of Crediton and the surrounding areas. 

So far, in partnership with the Folklore Library and Archive, the library has collected and made available a number of memories of the local area in audio format. 

These include recollections of life during World War Two, stories of farming and growing up in the countryside, as well as living through rapidly changing times. 

There are memories of the first lady to receive antibiotics in Crediton, life before mobile phones and a resident’s memories of getting their first colour TV.

This new round of funding has enabled the recruitment of a dedicated Project Co-ordinator, who will work with the library to recruit more volunteers, gather more memories, and set up events related to the collection.

Izzy FitzGerald, who has recently started in the post, commented: “I’m thrilled to work on this project. 

“There is something for everyone here: it offers volunteers the opportunity to gain some new skills and be involved with gathering a piece of their heritage, local people the opportunity to see Crediton’s history in a new way, and interviewees the chance to share and preserve their memories for future generations.”

The Reminiscence Project was set up to collect memories from a range of people with a connection to the area, whether they have been residents all their lives, they once lived in the area, or have only recently moved. 

These memories will be recorded in audio form, capturing the voices of the people they belong to.

During the next two years, there will be a range of events to open the collection up to the community. 

Crediton Library is seeking volunteers, whether to carry out interviews, transcribe them or to help with outreach events. 

It is also looking for interviewees, whatever their age or background - anyone with memories of Crediton and the surrounding areas is welcome! 

Please contact the library on 01363 772578 or email: [email protected]  to find out more.

Recordings from earlier phases of the project can be found online at: www.folklorelibrary.com/crediton-library .