A group of passionate young people are uncovering the untold stories of Rotherham’s past, ensuring the borough’s unique heritage is celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
As part of Rotherham’s year as the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture, 18 young Heritage Producers have been recruited across the borough’s 25 wards, thanks to support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Their mission is to capture the voices, memories, and moments that define Rotherham’s different communities. This pioneering project will shine a light on the borough’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, with each young producer working in their local area to explore what makes it special.
Harry Wright, Heritage Producer for Aughton and Swallownest, said: “We’re collecting oral histories from people across Rotherham, stories that might otherwise be lost. With their permission, these memories will be added to the Rotherham Archives, offering future generations a window into everyday life here. They tell the real story of Rotherham, the voices behind the headlines.”
Project Manager Kathryn Reaney added: “Our young Heritage Producers are capturing history as it happens. They bring energy, creativity, and a deep sense of pride in their communities. Supported by local Community Host Organisations, they’re connecting with people and places that make Rotherham what it is, ensuring these times won’t be forgotten.”
Each Heritage Producer will go on to create a unique celebration of their ward’s heritage, from community meals and public artworks to documentaries and podcast, inspired by the stories they’ve uncovered. Grace Bower, Heritage Producer for Maltby East, added: “It’s a chance to work with our communities to reflect real lives in creative ways, and to make something that feels authentic to Rotherham. It’s an incredible opportunity.”
The Heritage Producers are now calling on residents from all backgrounds to share their stories – from the ordinary to the extraordinary – to help paint a fuller picture of life in Rotherham today. These stories will become a lasting record in the borough’s archives, inspiring future historians and generations to come. If you’d like to share your or your community’s heritage, please email heritageproducers@rotherham.gov.uk to get involved in the project.