Two South Birmingham veterans took centre stage today to help two Billesley students get a taste of what it was like to shop and eat in war time Britain.

The veterans visited Midlands Co-op's store on Swanshurst Lane, Moseley, to teach the students about rationed Britain as part of my Veteran Campaign and very kindly hosted by Midlands Co-op, who are campaign sponsors.

The whole thrust of my Veterans Campaign has been to ensure that not only are veterans thanked for what they did for us but also to ensure that their stories are not forgotten. We have conducted a number of interviews with veterans for inclusion in the 'Book of Memories' which is being sponsored by Midlands Co-op. This event was another way to tell the young people of today about what is was like and what sacrifices were made on our behalf. 

To bring the event to life, staff from Midlands Co-op were dressed in World War Two outfits.  They helped the students and veterans find foods typical of today and those you would find in a 1940s' shopping basket, including ingredients needed to bake a 1940s style cake and a cake today.

Phil Hutton, Manager of Midlands Co-ops Swanshurst Lane convenience store explained: "With the variety, quantity and quality of food available today it is sometimes difficult to appreciate what is was like for those who endured rationing during wartime and beyond.  People became very ingenious and very little was wasted.  Lessons that many are interested in rediscovering, in light of current economic and environmental concerns.  We have a lot to learn from, as well as thank, our wartime generation."

Phil O'Dell, Funeral Director at Midlands Co-op's Hall Green and Yardley Wood Funeral Homes added: "We are delighted to be involved in an event which pays tribute to a generation of men and women who deserve everyone's gratitude and respect."

Midlands Co-op outlets local to Swanshurst School include; a Convenience Store on Swanshurst Lane and Dad's Lane, a Superstore, Funeral Home and Florist in Stirchley, Funeral Home in Hall Green and Yardley Wood and Travel shop on Kings Heath High Street.