A 1940s themed tea party is launching a year-long project to explore and remember the 500-plus civilian men, women and children who lost their lives in Battersea in the Second World War.

Through research and recorded interviews with survivors, the project aims to learn as much as possible - such as where and how they lived and what happened to them.

One of the organisers Jenny Sheridan said: “The first impulse came shortly after Remembrance Day, when we wanted to remember those who sacrificed their lives at home as well as in the armed forces.

“There are still people in Battersea who remember the war, and we hope to talk to them. Others, who are younger, may have heard stories from their parents or grandparents.

“We hope to capture these stories from our history before they disappear.”

Another organiser, Carol Rahn said: “We chose the date for the tea party to coincide with the Big Lunch/remembrance of Jo Cox.

“Our event is being held in the spirit of “communities coming together.”

Over the next year, organisers intend to produce a booklet, hold at least one talk and exhibition, and a theatrical performance “to shine a fresh light on what it was like when the war came right to our doorstep”. Local schools will be invited to be involved.

The party will be held on Sunday, June 18, in Christchurch Gardens Battersea Park Road, where there is a Grade II listed, memorial plaque to Battersea's civilian casualties.

The organisers said: “We will be looking for people who have personal memories from the time, or family stories, or know someone who lived through the Blitz in Battersea.

“We will also be looking for volunteers to help record these stories, as well as those who may have mementos or artefacts from wartime Battersea that could be loaned for an exhibition.

“Everyone's invited to join the tea party -- there will be food, songs and games for all.”

To learn more contact warcomeshome@mailwise.co.uk.