DISCOVER why Redditch Library is an architectural gem, and the trials and tribulations of First World War military tribunals in ‘Heritage Matters’, the journal of Redditch Local History Society.
Edited by local historian Derek Coombes it also includes articles on Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, Crabbs Cross School, and the World War Two bombings of Redditch, plus much more.
The architect behind Redditch Library was John Madin, the man who also designed Birmingham Central Library, which was knocked down to make way for the new one that now stands in Centenary Square of the Second City.
Redditch Library is similarly under threat, says Derek Coombes, who wrote the article on it in Heritage Matters.
“It seems they want to demolish it for no other reason than to make a nice entrance to the Kingfisher Shopping Centre,” he said.
However the library does have some hope of protection as it earlier this year it was put forward as building of importance to Historic England.
The article on First World War military tribunals gives a snapshot of ongoing research currently being undertaken at The Hive in Worcester where the county archives are held.
“It wasn’t all people trying to involve conscription,” said Derek.
“There are cases of people wanting to enlist but being prevented from doing so by their employer, as well as other reasons.”
Lavishly illustrated with plenty of photographs of old Redditch, the journal is available free of charge online at http://www.redditchhistorysociety.org.uk/publications.htm
