Local MP and long time supporter of the Coleshill Auxillary Research Team (CART), Justin Tomlinson, joined Highworth residents at the unveiling a panel detailing the history of the Auxillarty Units and local hero, postmistress Mabel Stranks.
The Unit formed part of Churchill's Secret Army, a British Resistance trained to tackle an invasion by Hitler during the Second World War. Mabel Stranks played this key role in Coleshill from 1940 to 1944 at considerable personal risk. The village postmistress, she was known for her discretion and was the sole person trusted with ensuring that Coleshill and the work that went on there remained a secret.
CART is indebted to current owner of the old Post Office, Matthew Walker, who not only gave permission to place the panel on his property but helped with the cost and logistics as well. Both the Research Team and Justin hope that the panel will act as a permanent reminder to the bravery of many ‘ordinary’ members of public during the Second World War.
Justin continues to work with members of CART to secure greater recognition for the work of the brave individuals involved with the Auxilliers.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "It was with great honour that I unveiled a plaque this week in the old post office in Highworth to mark the incredible job she did and the nature of the Unit she was protecting. Never have I felt so proud to represent North Swindon and to ensure that the great tales of the small market town of Highworth, both old and new, are preserved and recognised for posterity".
To find out more about CART and the story of Mabel Stranks click here, or alternatively you can watch SwindonWeb's piece on the story of the Unit and Mabel Stranks.
