Housebuilder backs Holmes Chapel display

Persimmon Homes North West has donated £1,000 to a Holmes Chapel history group to help it stage a major exhibition telling the story of life in the village during The First World War.

The Local History Group of the Holmes Chapel and District U3A applied to Persimmon to become one of its monthly Community Champions and was selected to receive the donation as part of the match-funded scheme.

Two donations of up to £1,000 are made locally every month.

John Clowes from the group said: “We have been raising funds to put on an exhibition explaining about life in Holmes Chapel during The First World War, when 225 men from the village and surrounding areas joined the services.

“The exhibition will run from November 9 to 11, and will tell the story of the contribution made by Holmes Chapel to the war effort both on the home front and by those serving in the forces.

“It will be a community event for all ages and will include displays along with exhibits of medals and other artefacts.

“Schools will be invited and there will be various music groups singing and playing music from the time.

“There will be a closing ceremony on the Sunday, to which representatives of local organisation are invited when the church bells will be rung in celebration of Armistice Day 100 years ago.

“Thanks to the very generous donation from Persimmon Homes, I’m pleased to say that we have nearly reached our fundraising target of £2,450.”

Dave Hodgson, the sales director at Persimmon Homes North West, said: “We were really pleased to help the Holmes Chapel U3A in its aim of showcasing the role played by the village in the First World War. Hopefully the event will be fully supported by the local community.”

Community groups, charities and good causes across the north west have now benefitted thanks to donations from the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme.

Organisations can apply for funding by completing a simple online form at persimmonhomes.com/charity