History was brought to life today at Bradley Stoke library, where several members of BBC Bristol Radio team spent their time talking to locals about the 1980′s, and how the town of Bradley Stoke has developed as a community since the first houses were built around 25 years ago. The event was part of the BBC’s Domesday Project.

Hands-on displays included a plethora of toys, books, comics and even clothes from the 1980′s, along with some of the most popular computer games from that era. ‘Worm’ and ‘Space invaders’ were particularly popular with youngsters (and the not so young!) at today’s event, even though they are a far cry from today’s animated computer games.

The library staff joined in the sense of fun, by dressing in 80′s costumes, and some even joined the BBC Bristol Radio team in having 80′s style make-up applied by the make-up team who were brought in specially for this event.

Newspaper reports, documenting the development of the town’s many facilities – one by one – were put on display. Visitors to the library were able to read about much of Bradley Stoke’s history, from the initial opposition from Patchway residents against the proposed housing development through to announcements about the town’s first pub, schools, portacabin library, the leisure centre opening and schools. A fascinating 30-minute Bradley Stoke documentary from the 1980′s, produced by Chris Vacher, was shown – along with information about the very first ‘Residents’ Association’. It was interesting to hear that their number one priority was that of Communication – leading to the town’s very first Newsletter.

We would love to hear from any members of the original Residents’ Association – if you were involved please do get in touch with us!

Local author, Martin Davis, gave a fascinating insight into live in this area before the building work started. His book, The Farmer and the Golden Goose, was featured in the Bradley Stoke and Little Stoke Gifford Matters Magazines when it was first published – and Martin is delighted to report that following great local interest the first edition has nearly sold out!

Local weatherman, Ian Fergusson, put in a personal appearance, and was interviewed live on BBC Radio Bristol. BBC’s Dr Phil Hammond interviewed your Bradley Stoke Matters editors, Jaci and Alison, live and was particularly interested to hear how the magazine and community website has enhanced the sense of community spirit.

You can see more pictures from the day on our flickr tab.