Second World War novel on legacy of poppy factory
Henley-based author Kirsten Hesketh, 62, who resides on Greys Hill, has released a new historical novel titled The Poppy Girls. Writing under the pseudonym Kirsty Dougal, Hesketh’s book follows the intertwined lives of three young women during the Second World War. The novel is published by Penguin.
Local School Updates
- Furze Platt Infant School, Oaken Grove, Maidenhead SL6 6HQ — 3 classes: Dragonfly Class (Miss Midaoui, Mrs Lampton).
- Alwyn Infant & Nursery School, Mulberry Walk, Maidenhead SL6 5EU — 2 classes: Ash Class (Mrs McKeown, Mrs Clarke).
- Braywick Court School, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead SL6 1UU — 1 class: Maple Class (Mrs McNeaney, Mrs Reading).
- St Edmund Campion Catholic Primary School, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PX — 2 classes: Otters Class (Ms Knapper, Mrs Tang, Miss Grant, Mrs Fretwell).
Local Developments
Centrica’s Maidenhead Road site is relocating. Additionally, public notices this week highlight plans for a self-build house on land between Green View, Holyport Street, and Glenside, Holyport Road. The plot has previously seen three unsuccessful housing proposals.
Community and Remembrance
Residents have contributed to a remembrance-themed knitted poppy display adorning the postbox on Bray High Street, as well as to another poppy installation in the park on Bray Road, Bray.
Fundraising Events
Pinder Hall in Cookham, located at 2 Lower Road, has launched a £50,000 fundraising campaign for much-needed building repairs, including renovations to its roof.
Local History
Photographs from The Maidenhead Advertiser 150th Anniversary edition, titled Days Gone By, are now available for purchase.
Author’s summary: A Henley author’s wartime novel shines alongside community efforts in remembrance, education, and local preservation across Maidenhead and Cookham.