The Torch Youth Theatre, in Milford Haven, has recently launched the memory box project to bring memories from the community to life through a short film. They are seeking stories from members of the local area, with the aim of  ‘to share, to listen and to develop local nostalgia into a theatre piece.’

The stories can be from times gone by up to the present day, covering all aspects of life in Milford Haven. Milford Haven has a rich history, as the town has developed over the years with its links to the sea, the petroleum industry and being a vital base for Allied troops during the Second World War; all of which have helped to shape the town into what it is today.

The 15th February 2021 marked the 25th anniversary of the Sea Empress Disaster, which locals will know had a devastating effect on beautiful landscape of Pembrokeshire and its wildlife. Members of the youth theatre are being encouraged to speak to parents, grandparents and neighbours to find out more from them about the historical event, with hopes that any material captured can be used in the Memory Box project.

Over the past year, new stories will have emerged as we have faced unprecedented times with Covid-19. The Torch Youth Theatre want to give a platform for these stories to be told, so they are retained for future generations to hear.

Chloe Wheeler is the Torch Theatre’s Education and Youth Officer,

“Can you remember what the nightlife and entertainment spots used to be like? Do you have any stories of the Marina or Docks? Has anyone famous or royal ever visited? Did you meet them? Do you know some history of the town that has been forgotten and needs to be shared? We would love to know about what stories you have to say about our wonderful town.”

The Youth Theatre are hoping to collect a wide selection of Milford Haven stories from both the younger and older generations, from within the community to include stories from people that have since moved out of the town.

Chloe added,

 “It would be amazing to get a range of stories through the years. We are establishing relationships with our local care and residential homes, but if we could connect with younger demographics as well, we would welcome it. It would be great to hear from a range of people who’d like to share a story of our town and community.”

The Milford Haven Memory Box project has been made possible by the kind support of the Milford Haven community, who voted for the scheme as part of the Milford Haven Working Together Fund, supported by the Police Commissioners Fund. Once it is safe to return back to the Torch, the stories collected for the Milford Haven Memory Box will be told by the Youth Theatre.

If you have got a story to tell or would like to find out more, please contact Chloe via email education@torchtheatre.co.uk, or call 07841 830346.Find out more on the Torch Youth Theatre facebook group.