WW1 Local Hero Workshop

"Richard's sessions were both enjoyable and inspiring, but also moving and sensitive. My class learned so much about life in the trenches, but also about how it affected the community at home. Our Local History topic will never be the same again. Thanks so much." Mrs D., Gateshead
"That History Bloke has been a great service to our school over the year, but this experience was truly amazing. The Great War was treated with the respect it deserves, and Tommy is a great example to our kids. Well done, and I hope other schools realise the difference that bringing Richard in can make. Excellent." Head teacher - Gateshead

The First World War was a time when men on the front line could become heroes by performing acts of incredible bravery. In honour of the centenary of the start of the Great War, That History Bloke is proud to present a celebration of the achievements one of the North East’s own local heroes - a winner of the Victoria Cross!

Tommy Young was simply an ordinary miner from High Spen, now in the borough of Gateshead. Yet, under heavy firepower and bombardment, this ‘ordinary’ man did something extraordinary: as a stretcher bearer, he saved the lives of nine soldiers, all without firing a shot!

Learn Tommy’s life story from hewer to celebrity. Use census, maps and photographs to piece together his early life underground. Did working hard in the wet and dark conditions, surrounded by rats and constant danger prepare Tommy for the trenches? Learn about his terrific acts of bravery using artefacts, including a stretcher, uniform and kit bag. Can you dress wounds and administer water under heavy gunfire? By the end of the day, your class will have had an amazing experience, inspired by a man that the North East should be proud of. How you choose to follow-up the day is up to you – diaries, newspapers, drama, art, poetry, sculpture...