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Reunion for war babies
WAR babies born at a Dales castle which served as a maternity hospital between 1940 and 1946 are being invited to take part in a 70th anniversary reunion.
During the Second World War Willersley Castle in Cromford was taken over by The Salvation Army as an emergency maternity unit.
Mums-to-be were evacuated from The Mothers Hospital in Clapton in East London, after it was badly damaged in The Blitz and for seven years during the Second World War the castle, which was built in 1790 by Richard Arkwright, saw more than 4,000 births.
Reunion
Now the castle's owner, holiday company Christian Guild, is hosting a three-day reunion from March 8 to March 10 for those born within the castle's walls.
General manager Tim Rogers said: "There will be a lot going on over the three days, with special entertainment each evening. We've lined up other activities for those who want to return to their place of birth to share their stories with others."
To mark the anniversary Willersley war babies and historians will be taking part in a celebration event which will include a meal on the Monday evening with samples of authentic 1940s delicacies to try.
On the Tuesday there will be a scenic excursion around the Peak District and a display of archive photographs, documents and memories on show.
Tim said: "For many people, it will be the first chance to visit the beautiful place where they were born, and we're sure they'll enjoy being back in this magnificent castle."
Anyone interested in attending the reunion break can contact Willersley Castle Hotel on 01629 582270 or email willersley@christianguild.co.uk.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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