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Campaigners to host meeting in bid to save Ripon's military heritage

Monday, 2 September 2024 08:07

Huts at Ripon Barracks.

The group fighting to save Ripon's military heritage from destruction by housing developments are speaking at a public meeting next month.

The Chair of the Ripon Military Heritage Trust, Guy Wilson, and the Group’s Secretary, Jane Furse will be addressing a meeting entitled ‘From Bombs to Bailey Bridges’ in Bishop Monkton Village Hall on September 11th.

Their presentation will detail the contribution made by Ripon and its surroundings to military history, particularly in the two World Wars.

Much vital wartime engineering development and testing took place in and around Ripon, including the celebrated Bailey bridges, temporary kit bridges used particularly during the Allied invasion after D-Day in 1944.

The Trust was set up to campaign for the preservation of the remaining structures on former Army barrack sites to the west of Ripon where developers are planning more than 1,000 new homes.

Guy Wilson said:

“The story of just how important Ripon’s contribution was to the outcome of the Second World War and other conflicts is still largely untold.

“This is why we are so determined to spread the word through events like this one in Bishop Monkton as part of our fight to preserve those relics of this fascinating history which still remain.”

Colin Philpott, who’s organising the event on behalf of the Bishop Monkton Local History Group, said:

“Even little Bishop Monkton played a vital role in World War Two with wartime bridges tested at a site near the village where remains of Nissan huts can still be seen.

"It’s just one part of a much bigger military story.”

The event takes place on Wednesday 11th September starting at 7pm in Bishop Monkton Village Hall.

Tickets cost £10 (free to members of the Bishop Monkton Local History Group) to be paid on the door.

But to ensure a seat, please contact Annabel Alton via email annabel@annabelalton.com Doors will open at 6.30pm and there will be a cash bar selling wine and soft drinks.

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