Comic book for school children celebrates historic Westgate’s transformation
Thursday, February 08, 2024
A comic book to promote Wakefield’s history and heritage to children aged 8-11 years has been launched by Wakefield Council.
Featuring local stories and infamous characters, the comic has been designed to make learning about Wakefield’s past engaging and fun.
The Comic marks the successful completion of The Upper Westgate High Street Heritage Action Zone. The £4.1m regeneration project is jointly funded by Wakefield Council, Historic England, and the building owners to restore and preserve 19 buildings within the Upper Westgate conservation area.
“It’s awesome to see the changes that this project has brought about and the difference it’s made. The comic is about capturing the imagination of our younger generation and helping them learn more about our district’s history.”
Cllr Michael Graham
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
"The comic is very informative, fun and engaging. I’m sure children will enjoy it and learn a lot from it. It’s so important to share our history, and its many stories with young people.”
Cllr Margaret Isherwood
Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
Nicola Brown from Historic England said: “Learning about local heritage can give young people a sense of pride in place, as well as raise their self-esteem and aspirations. This comic is a great way to give children an insight into the special history of their town.”
The comic includes puzzles, maps, colouring pages, and a wonderful story by children’s author Natasha Holmes - guaranteed to keep children reading.
The comic book tells the tale of two children who travel back to key dates in the past after opening a mysterious green door located on Westgate.
Funding for the comic has come from a budget for The Upper Westgate High Street Heritage Action Zone – as it includes promoting the area’s history and culture.
Local schools have been contacted, and those who have signed up will receive the comic books this month.
The Council will be producing an online version of the comic book, available on the Council website by mid-March.