Second World War novel on legacy of poppy factory

Second World War Novel on Legacy of Poppy Factory

A Henley author has written a novel depicting the lives of three young women during the Second World War. Kirsten Hesketh, 62, residing in Greys Hill, authored The Poppy Girls under the pen name Kirsty Dougal. The book is published by Penguin.

Local Schools and Classes

Furze Platt Infant School, Oaken Grove, Maidenhead SL6 6HQ
- 3 classes: Dragonfly Class – Miss Midaoui, Mrs Lampton
Alwyn Infant & Nursery School, Mulberry Walk, Maidenhead SL6 5EU
- 2 classes: Ash Class – Mrs McKeown, Mrs Clarke
Braywick Court School, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead SL6 1UU
- 1 class: Maple Class – Mrs McNeaney, Mrs Reading
St Edmund Campion Catholic Primary School, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PX
- 2 classes: Otters Class – Ms Knapper, Mrs Tang, Miss Grant, Mrs Fretwell

Local Developments

Centrica is relocating from its Maidenhead Road site. Land between Green View, Holyport Street, and Glenside, Holyport Road is the focus of this change.

Plans have been submitted for a self-build home on a plot in the center of Holyport, an area previously subject to three unsuccessful housing bids.

Remembrance and Community Events

Remembrance knitting has been placed atop a postbox on Bray High Street.
A Remembrance Poppy display is set up in the park on Bray Road.

Fundraising for Cookham's Pinder Hall

Pinder Hall in Cookham, located at 2 Lower Road, has initiated a £50,000 fundraiser to cover vital repairs, including roof restoration.

Historical Archive Photos

Photos from The Maidenhead Advertiser 150th Anniversary book, Days Gone By, are now available for purchase.

"Pinder Hall in Cookham has started a £50,000 fundraiser for essential repairs to the building, including its roof."

Author’s summary: Kirsten Hesketh’s wartime novel captures resilience through three young women’s stories, while local Maidenhead events highlight community spirit and ongoing heritage preservation.

Henley Standard — 2025-11-06