HISTORY came to life last month as West Dunbartonshire Women’s History Group closed its hugely successful World War II project.

The group of more than a dozen passionate historians researched, documented and celebrated the project, “The Changing Roles of West Dunbartonshire Women Throughout the Second World War” in the past several months.

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 V-E 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 variety 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, commented on how those taking part ranged from ages nine to 90.

She added: “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.”

For more information call 0141 952 3377.