Discover how our quiet downland villages lived through the chaos of two world wars in this local history chat from Ditchling History Project

Sheep Bells to Spitfires – our downland parishes in two world wars

Join us in person for a fascinating look at how our peaceful downland parishes transformed during the two world wars. Discover the stories behind the sheep bells and the roar of Spitfires, and get a real feel for life on the home front and the skies above. It’s a relaxed, eye-opening event you won’t want to miss!

At the time of the First World War sheep bells were a common sound on the Downs but just twenty years after that war ended there came the roar of the Spitfire. In both the First and Second world wars, young men employed on local farms, village shops and the potteries on the Common left their homes to go to war; sons of wealthier families became serving officers soon after leaving school. On the home front as, local communities set up Red Cross hospitals and Civil Defence Units, land girls and prisoners-of-war helped out on the farms. Personal recollections and diaries, newspaper accounts and official records show the sacrifice and contribution made by our downland communities with stories of individual courage, family sadness and collective endeavour.

Booking in advance required as limited number of places.

Cost £8.00 to be paid on arrival, to include tea/coffee and cake. Please bring cash.

Please car share wherever possible, as parking is limited.

Description supplied by the event organiser.