Came across this a while ago and seeing that access is granted to the site at present ( until 18:00 3rd jan 2010) ( this then returns to A MOD FIRING RANGE ) and not accessible until easter i decided to mark the end of the year by taking a visit and seeing for myself.Taken from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imber
This village was a thriving community up until 1 November 1943 the people of Imber were called to a meeting in the village schoolroom and given 47 days’ notice to leave their homes. Although upset about being forced to leave, most villagers put up no resistance, taking the view that it was their duty to contribute to the war effort in this way, making sacrifices for the greater good.
Although the villagers had been told they could return in six months, this was never allowed. At the end of the war, efforts were made to restore Imber to its pre-war condition but the decision was taken not to relinquish control. A public enquiry was held, and found in favour of Imber’s continued military use. The matter was also raised in the House of lords, and it was decided that the church would be maintained, and would be open for worship on the Saturday closest to St Giles’s day each year: a practice that continues. The service held is attended by former residents, soldiers who have used the village for training, and the general public. The village is often open to visitors on other occasions; generally two or three times a year
“Little Imber on the Downe,
Seven miles from any Towne,
Sheep bleats the unly sound,
Life twer sweet with ne’er a vrown,
Oh let us bide on Imber Downe.
”—Anon
other useful sites
http://www.foreverimber.org.uk/
http://www.public-interest.co.uk/imber/
Photos will follow ( being uploaded )
but if you cant wait http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=137991&id=691871951&l=8f3814b02a the next target ( pardon the pun) will be http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyneham
