‘Cheltenham Remembers’ project shortlisted for top public sector award

The Association of Public Service Excellence (APSE) has shortlisted the partnership project in recognition of the strong collaborative approach in remembering Cheltenham’s role during World War 1.

Throughout 2018, the borough council worked with eight lead partners to deliver a diverse programme of engaging and accessible activities: The Cheltenham Trust, Cheltenham Ladies College, Cheltenham Local History Society, RAF Association, St Peter’s & The Moors Big Local Project, University of Gloucestershire, Everyman Theatre and the BID.

The programme included a moving memorial march, exhibitions, living history performances, touring play which celebrated the Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) hospital around Cheltenham, concerts, school projects and restoration of local memorials. Many additional, community led events took place all over Cheltenham.

Lights, camera, action

On Remembrance Sunday evening, the project delivered an emotive high impact and unique event. Projected along the front of the Municipal Offices was a film of imagery and sound, depicting the impact of war, and featuring original content that had been developed with input from local students, a choir, poet and a rapper. 
The projection was replayed throughout the evening and attracted 3-4k people as well as online shares of the event and associated films, via social media, of around 500k people.

The borough council and partners will find out if they have won the award on 12 September 2019.

Councillor Flo Clucas, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles said: “To have been nominated for the award is high praise in itself and we are thrilled to have received this recognition. 

‘’It is a testament to the partners involved – and the whole community – for all they did to come together and remember those loved and lost during the first world war.’’

Mark Sheldon, director for corporate projects, added:  “This recognition from APSE and our peers demonstrates the significant and positive impact that the WW1 project had for Cheltenham.  I am proud that we have come this far and look forward to finding out if we are winners.’’

The annual APSE awards are widely recognised in local authorities for promoting excellence in frontline service provision.

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Notes for the editor:

APSE is a not-for-profit organisation that works with local authorities and specialises in promoting excellence in frontline service provision.

The announcement follows last month’s national recognition when Cheltenham Borough Council won the MJ achievement award for Best Commercial Council.