You will hear the voices of the following on this CD

Dulcie Pretty,  Vernon (Sonny) Brown, Christine Christian, Penny Winter, Jan Howell, Fred Hadingham, John Naunton, Lindsay Pietrzak, Vi Day, Jimmy Kent, Adrian Key, Gary Kent and Trish Lawrence.

The recordings were made in the early months of 2002, by Stewart Orr.    The aim is to present a snapshot of our two villages at this moment.   The time necessary to make and edit recordings was considerable, and so it has in no way been possible to talk to everyone who has a story to tell.   To those who were left out, apologies.    To those who took part, sincere thanks.

The issue of the disc is timed to coincide with the MENDHAM AND WITHERSDALE HERITAGE SOCIETY'S weekend of exhibitions and activities that took place from June 1st to 5th, 2002.   On those days our two churches were open and welcoming visitors, and there was an exhibition about Mendham's famous son, artist Alfred Munnings at Mendham Mill.   In Withersdale there were exhibitions of bygones at Chapel Farm, and of broadcasting and audio equipment at Prior's Croft Barn.   The site of Mendham Priory ruins was indicated, and there were further exhibitions at Mendham School, and in the church and a marquee in the village.   One of the oldest houses in Mendham, High Hall Cottage, was open for conducted tours.   Then there were the refreshments in the Old Rectory Garden, and the good ale and cream teas available at the village pub, the Sir Alfred Munnings.  You will see that it had all the ingredients for a splendid weekend.

This recording will help you to get to know another side of the village.   From the personal memories of villagers past and present, young and old it gives an insight into many aspects of village life.    The days before mains drainage, and the way in which our predecessors amused themselves on long winter evenings, for instance.

We hope you enjoy listening to nearly 70 minutes of the memories and comments that make up