A DIGITAL project is helping to bring the history of Olveston residents to life.


On Wednesday, July 1, students from Marlwood School joined members of Olveston History Society and local councillors at Olveston War Memorial, and used modern technology to access a Quick Response (QR) code which has been installed near the memorial.


When scanned, the QR code provides a wealth of information and personal stories about people named on the memorial who were killed in battle, which have been researched by Bill Morgan from Olveston Parish History Society.


Chair of Olveston Historical Society, Les Harper, said: “The QR code will inform local people and visitors of the lives of the ordinary men in this village who gave their lives in the First World War and enable people to put a human face and story to a name. Being able to bring the research we have done to a wider audience through new technology will ensure we never forget the sacrifice of these people.”


Heather Goddard, chair of South Gloucestershire Council Communities, added: “This is the first installation to be up and running and we hope it will inspire QR codes to be installed on First World War memorials across South Gloucestershire.


“Many people want instant access to information at their fingertips and this technology will allow everyone to discover what happened to the brave soldiers who gave their lives for their country all those years ago.”


The project has been coordinated by South Gloucestershire Council as part of the Heritage Lottery Funded South Gloucestershire First World War project to engage local people with the First World War centenary and includes working with schools and community groups.


To read the stories of Olveston residents who lost their lives during the war visit sites.southglos.gov.uk/war-memorials.


If any group is interested in installing a QR code on their local war memorial please contact museums@southglos.gov.uk