HISTORY was brought to life last month when West Dunbartonshire Women’s History Group brought its hugely successful World War Two project.to a close with a special VE Day-themed party.

The group of more than a dozen passionate historians spent months researching, documenting and celebrating their project, The Changing Roles of West Dunbartonshire Women Throughout the Second World War.

With a book of memories and recipes expected to be published in July, the women welcomed the community to Clydebank Town Hall to celebrate all their work with art, artefacts, food, music and dancing.

Their VE-Day themed street party was packed with all ages and included Liz McEachen performing A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square and The Way You Look Tonight, while the young members of Singer Station School of Music, from Bonhill, gave renditions of classics Chattanooga Choo Choo, Boogie, Woogie Bugle Boy and closed the event with We’ll Meet Again.

And Anne Nelson’s team performed a jump ‘n’ jive display on the stage under the watchful eye of bunting criss-crossing across the grand hall.

May Semple, chairwoman of the history group, said: “I was gobsmacked at the day and the success of it. We had 1940s food tasting, women at work, women in the Blitz, 1940s wedding fashion, hair and beauty, domestic, uniforms, entertainment. It’s been a challenge and hard work, but quite motivational and very cohesive for the group. It gives me a buzz. I love these women.”

Betty McGeachy, an 84-year-old group member, said: “I was astonished at the number of people of all ages who turned up - a real community day.”

Artist Tom McKendrick presented the prizes to the poster competition winners, £50 for art materials to Bethany Gall of Gavinburgh Primary, £30 for Esther Kyeremeh of Christie Park Primary, £20 for Rebecca Fallone of St Mary’s Primary in Duntocher and £10 for each of the other 18 submissions for their high standard.

He added: “It was a wonderful event, both entertaining and educational. The variet of items that made up the programme were all highly enjoyable.

“The event was wide ranging and inclusive. The West Dunbartonshire Women’s History Group deserve credit and applause.”

Gill Aitkenhead, Vice Lord Lieutenant of the county, said: “What a brilliantly staged and thought-out event.

“It was a triumph of organisation, fun, thoughtfulness, sensitivity and celebration and you and all of your team of West Dunbartonshire Women’s History Group deserve every accolade that has come your way.”

Provost Douglas McAllister said: “The exceptional work carried out by the members of the West Dunbartonshire Women’s History Group is to be applauded for its role in ensuring the past is not forgotten.”

“We are committed to preserving our heritage for generations to come and I am grateful to organisations like this one for the part they play in ensuring the stories of the past are available for future generations.”

The project was funded by Our Sharing Heritage and Celebrate Lottery.

For more information or to get involved with the group, contact May Semple on may.semple@talktalk.net or 0141 952 3377.