Second World War Novel on the Legacy of the Poppy Factory
Henley-based author Kirsten Hesketh, aged 62, has written a new historical novel titled The Poppy Girls. Published by Penguin under her pen name Kirsty Dougal, the story follows the intertwined lives of three young women during the Second World War. Hesketh lives on Greys Hill in Henley, and her book explores the endurance and emotional strength of its protagonists amid war and remembrance.
Local Community Updates
- Furze Platt Infant School, Oaken Grove, Maidenhead (SL6 6HQ): Three classes — Dragonfly Class (Miss Midaoui, Mrs Lampton).
- Alwyn Infant & Nursery School, Mulberry Walk, Maidenhead (SL6 56EU): Two classes — Ash Class (Mrs McKeown, Mrs Clarke).
- Braywick Court School, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead (SL6 1UU): One class — Maple Class (Mrs McNeaney, Mrs Reading).
- St Edmund Campion Catholic Primary School, Altwood Road, Maidenhead (SL6 4PX): Two classes — Otters Class (Ms Knapper, Mrs Tang, Miss Grant, Mrs Fretwell).
Town and Development News
Centrica’s Maidenhead Road site is being vacated, with plans to move operations elsewhere. Meanwhile, a new self-build home proposal has been submitted for land between Green View, Holyport Street, and Glenside, Holyport Road. The site has previously seen three unsuccessful housing applications.
Remembrance and Community Initiatives
Residents have created a remembrance-themed knitted poppy display on a postbox in Bray High Street, along with a poppy arrangement in the park on Bray Road. These tributes serve as visual reminders of sacrifice and memory.
Local Fundraising Efforts
Pinder Hall in Cookham has launched a £50,000 fundraising campaign for essential repairs, including a new roof.
This historic venue, located at 2 Lower Road, Cookham, continues to play a vital role in community life.
Historical Collections
Photos featured in The Maidenhead Advertiser’s 150th Anniversary book, Days Gone By, are now available for purchase, offering glimpses into local history and cherished moments from the town’s past.
Author’s Summary
The article highlights Kirsten Hesketh’s new wartime novel and shares key local updates—from school classes and new housing proposals to remembrance art and community fundraising.