Wartime Secrets

In 2004 a dusty old chest of black and white films, unseen since the 1940s was discovered in Herefordshire. Beautifully shot at the Barronia Metals factory in Blackfriars Street it shows the workers doing their bit for the war effort, making parts for Wellingtons and Spitfires. It’s not all work and no play, the workers keep their spirits up with japes for the camera and there’s charming footage of local Home Guard units. From this treasure trove, a short documentary featuring interviews with former workers reveals the huge importance of this secret factory to Britain’s war effort.

Dr Maureen Beauchamp and Chris Tomlinson, descendants of key production staff will introduce the film and bring exhibits of the airplane parts produced for the RAF during the war.