The University of Portsmouth has joined forces with the Liberation Route Europe Foundation (LRE) and LRE UK to officially launch two new hiking trails - 'Community in War-Scarred Portsmouth' and 'Dartmouth at War' - joining the Liberation Route Europe network.
The trail follows the path and stories of both military and civilian life during the Second World War in Portsmouth, Hampshire and Dartmouth, Devon.
These are the first collaborative trails in the UK developed with the University of Portsmouth, dedicated to highlighting the impact of the Second World War and uncovering stories that are often overlooked in these areas. The project connects a rich variety of sites and stories, including historic landmarks, monuments, and personal testimonies, many of which are rarely featured in mainstream Second World War narratives.
Dr Robert James , Senior Lecturer in Cultural and Social History within the School of Area Studies, Sociology, History, Politics and Literature (SASSHPL) at the University of Portsmouth, said: "The partnership between the University and LRE UK is an important and exciting one. The work we do together provides students with real-life experiences and helps to build their employment skills. At the same time, they have contributed to keeping the memories of the history of wartime Britain alive.
"I am really impressed with the excellent work they have completed, and I am grateful for the support Ben has given us. The focus on the civilian aspect has been especially powerful, and it has been captured beautifully in the trails."
Ben Mayne, Director of LRE UK , said: "The work of the four students and support from Rob James at the University has been of a high standard. They should all be proud of their role in keeping the local history and heritage alive."
"We hope many people follow these trails, and what better time than during the 80th Anniversary of VJ-Day, marking the end of the Second World War, to remember the sacrifices made for our freedoms today."
Among the students was Francesca, who concentrated on the civilian experience in Portsmouth. She said: "Hopefully, people will be as inspired as I have been through researching, tracing and discovering quite how closely our lives can be entwined with the past of the Second World War."
Sadie, another contributing student, was awarded the School Prize for Academic Citizenship upon her graduation last month.
All route information and related stories are freely accessible via the Liberation Route Europe website and app , which offer interactive maps, historical insights, and practical tools to help hikers plan their journey and connect with the shared history of Europe's liberation.
