The Gordon Russell Design Museum and Broadway Museum & Art Gallery are launching a new oral history project to capture the personal stories of former employees of Gordon Russell Limited.

Funded by the Association of Independent Museums (AIM) and the National Heritage Lottery Fund (NHLF), this collaborative effort safeguards these memories for future generations, celebrating the craftsmanship and community spirit of those who shaped the village's history.

The Gordon Russell Design Museum, which houses a collection spanning the Arts and Crafts, Modernism, and Mid-Century Modern movements, preserves the history of Gordon Russell Limited. Its extensive archive of design drawings, photographs and furniture reflects Sir Gordon Russell's lasting contribution to British design.

 Jonathan Gibbs, chairman of the Gordon Russell Design Museum, said: "We're preserving more than just memories; we're ensuring that the expert craftsmanship and community spirit that defined Gordon Russell Limited is passed on to future generations."

To date, ten interviews have been recorded, including one with Martin Blakeman, who began his apprenticeship at Gordon Russell Limited at the age of 15 and now oversees the museum's archive as a volunteer.

Martin said: "It wasn't just a job - it was a family. The smell of the kilned wood, the camaraderie, and the pride we all took in our work - those are memories I'm honoured to share."

Central to the project is Museum-in-a-Box - an interactive kit that brings oral histories to life. This technology, also used at the V&A and the Tower of London, will be available in three ways: one box at the Gordon Russell Design Museum, another at Broadway Museum, and a third for educational events.

 Anona van Lawick, director of Broadway Museum, said: "This project gives voice to those who helped shape our local craft and manufacturing scene. We're eager to expand the initiative and are now looking for more stories from people in Broadway and its surrounds. By sharing these voices, both museums hope to reach new audiences and connect more people with the rich heritage of our community."

The project, which benefits from the generous support of AIM and funding raised by National Lottery players, will continue with further interviews.

The Gordon Russell Design Museum is specifically seeking more former employees of Gordon Russell Limited to share their experiences, while Broadway Museum invites local residents with historical stories to contribute to this growing archive.