I HAVE had the most wonderful time at the Monument this summer.

The Go Wild events were so popular averaging 120 children at each one. The highlight was definitely the bug catching and butterfly spotting. I think I must have looked at nearly 1,000 grasshoppers over the five days! The Common Blue butterfly was fluttering about at every event and they made everyone smile. The grass land was stunning and the paths were covered in families picnicking.

On the back of talking to so many inquisitive, fabulous children and parents, I have started to compile a scrapbook with stories and memories about the Monument. Some of them are about nature, some are about Spitfires racing down the valley, some are about tumbling down those stairs as a teenager...

I just wanted to ask you, if you have a story or a memory of your times at the Monument, would you send them to me? The line the National Trust is going to use is ‘200 years of stories and more to come’. We can read the memories and smile, and we can save them for future generations. I can say that they will be treasured. Maybe we could compile a book for us all to read? I don’t know, but I do know that I have laughed at some and I must admit, a few have made me cry. These stories must be cherished.

If you would like to send something to me, please send to Emma Jones, Fyne Court, Broomfield TA5 2EQ. You could email me if easier at [email protected] Please note they will be read by the public and please make it clear if you do not want your name with the story. I so look forward to reading them.

Emma Jones

Community fundraising and engagement officer (Wellington Monument)