Would you like to find out more about CPRE’s history,
and particularly the local campaigns that shaped your area? 
As part of our 90th anniversary celebrations we are working with the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) to put on a one day workshop (on Thursday 26 May) to encourage branches to explore the CPRE archive which is held at the Museum. The workshop will be hosted by Francesca Church, who is currently undertaking a PhD in ‘participatory historical geography’ (an innovative and creative approach to research, archival practices and collaboration) focusing on the CPRE archive.
A morning session will allow attendees to delve into the CPRE collection and peruse materials relating to their local area, as well as nationally-significant items. An afternoon session will explore opportunities for branches to use their discoveries in their own anniversary celebrations and activities (or as engaging content on websites and publications) and help volunteers, members and local people connect with historic campaigns and success stories.
We hope the day will lead to further workshops and activities (possibly including an exhibition, booklet and/or website) to help promote the work and influence of CPRE’s branches to their local audiences, while showing the importance of grass roots campaigning to CPRE’s national successes.
If you are interested in taking part in the CPRE Archive workshop, which will be held at the University of Reading on Thursday 26 May, please contact Oliver Hilliam at oliverh@cpre.org.uk
CPRE East Midlands 