CHIPPING Campden School student Ed Sandars discovered the grave of his great, great uncle during a prize-winning research project into the impact of World War I on Blockley families.

The research won Ed a £250 Heritage Award that was presented to him at the conclusion of Blockley Amateur Dramatic Company's premiere of William Wilkinson’s play “Have You Forgotten Yet?” an evocation of the battles of 100 years ago performed at St George’s Hall, Blockley.

Ed, aged 17, is the first award winner under a new scheme launched by Blockley Heritage Society in partnership with Blockley Educational Trust aimed at encouraging the younger generation to take an interest in their local heritage.

He travelled to Northern France and Flanders to see for himself 26 of the graves of the 52 Blockley soldiers who died in World War I. Some were in war cemeteries and some were simple graves in farmers’ fields.

“At Le Touret I discovered the grave of my great great uncle buried there. It was quite an emotional experience. The whole experience has enabled me to view the events of 100 years ago very differently," he said. “I met many of the relatives of Blockley’s fallen and spent many a Sunday afternoon talking to them. I have never felt so connected and involved on Remembrance Day than I did this year, having visited the cemeteries of people who were just my age and gave their lives for us.”

His research findings formed part of a poignant display of World War I memorabilia compiled by Blockley Heritage Society. A PowerPoint presentation of Ed’s research, called “The Fallen of the Parish of Blockley” will be retained in the archives at the Blockley Heritage Centre and will be put on public display at suitable future occasions.