MEMORIES of the First World War are being sought by researchers at one of the area’s historic buildings.

The team at Quarry Bank is looking to mark the centenary with an exhibition about the First World War from June next year.

Visitor services assistant Laura Collins said the team also hoped to hear from anyone from Trafford who may have stories shared by their relatives about the village of Styal between 1914 and 1918.

“We need people’s help to enrich our understanding of the war and the impact it had on the lives of people at the mill and in the village,” she said.

“We are looking for people to share any stories, items of interest or photographs from the time so that we can put together a display worthy of the centenary.”

Archives have already revealed much of the impact the First World War had on the Greg family who built and owned Quarry Bank, which is looked after by the National Trust.

One story that will be told is that of Arthur Tylston Greg who became a soldier in 1914 and was in the second Battle of Ypres.

He was wounded in 1915 after being shot by a German sniper. In 1916 he joined the Royal Flying Corps, but on April 23, 1917 he was shot down by enemy planes in a surprise attack.

Arthur’s younger brother, Robert Phillips Greg, joined the army in 1917 after training at his school in Rugby.

On April 29, 1918, just a year after Arthur’s death, Robert was stationed near Kummel when a shell was dropped onto his dug-out and he was fatally wounded.

Other written evidence includes emotional poems written by Arthur’s fiancée, Marian Allen, who was devastated after his death.

Laura said the main stories that now needed to be collected to complete a picture of the war’s impact were those of the mill workers and villagers in Styal.

“We want to build up a better picture of what life was like for the workers,” she said. “We know many of the mill workers and their families moved away from Styal so their descendants will be scattered all over Manchester now.”

If you are interested in sharing your ancestors’ stories call 01625 527468 or email quarrybankmill@nationaltrust.org.uk