'Bill's War: The story of a Shands evacuee - the memories of Bill O'Shea'

Schedule

Wed Sep 17 2025 at 07:30 pm to 08:30 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

Thomas Whitty House, Silver Street, EX13 5AH Axminster, United Kingdom | Axminster, EN

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Step back in time to South East London in 1921, where Bill O'Shea's story begins. When the war disrupted life in 1940, Bill moved with his workplace, J H Shands in Lea Green, as they relocated to Axminster along with many of their staff, where many remained for the rest of their lives, working at Shands until retirement.
Settling into his new surroundings, Bill married a local woman (who also worked at Shands) and, while his life may not have been filled with dramatic events, his memoirs offer a detailed glimpse into his first forty years. These writings cover his experiences in London leading up to and during World War 2, his time in Axminster, his service in the Home Guard, and his work at Shands.
Now, his grandson, Andrew Down, will share selected memories from these memoirs. Accompanied by sound and pictures, these personal recollections, previously only shared within the family, will be presented at the Axminster Heritage Centre on Wednesday, 17th September at 7:30pm. Join us to hear these insights into Bill O'Shea's life and the times he lived through.

£5 per ticket.
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Where is it happening?

Thomas Whitty House, Silver Street, EX13 5AH Axminster, United Kingdom, 1 Silver Street, Axminster, EX13 5AH, United Kingdom

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Axminster Heritage

Host or Publisher Axminster Heritage

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