POOLE engineering company Hamworthy celebrates its 100th birthday this year and to mark the occasion aims to collect and share stories and photos from the local community.

Now part of the Wartsila Corporation, and despite organic growth, mergers and acquisitions over the years to achieve global success, Hamworthy’s heritage remains firmly in Poole and its success can be attributed to the support of the local community.

“From a Class A Admiralty-approved establishment producing items such as turret rings for battleships in 1914 to market leading technology including water management systems for commercial vessels today, Hamworthy’s ties with both the Poole community and maritime industry spans a century,” said Dr Joe Thomas, managing director of Wartsila Water Systems.

“We want to share the stories of Hamworthy’s past and celebrate the contribution of the people of Poole to a UK manufacturing success story that has stood the test of time.

“The company has been part of Poole’s history for 100 years, employing and affecting thousands of local people. Following the traditions of ‘strength and service’ laid down by its founding brothers, Percy Francis Hall and Sidney Zaleski Hall, it’s a fitting time to thank all those whose own history is closely interwoven with Hamworthy.

“We want to hear the stories and fond memories that people have, and any photographs which bring them to life,” he said.

The company is aware of some stories. For example during the economic slump of the 1930s the canteen’s French chef made pickles and jams which were given to employees to supplement their wages and boost morale when times were hard.

“Perhaps someone remembers being part of the Hamworthy football team or dancing at the Hamworthy Sports and Social Club, or were a member of the Hamworthy 21 Club, which at its peak had over 550 members, many of which completed at least 50 years service before retirement,” said Dr Thomas.

“We’d be so grateful if you’d share your memories with us ahead of the official day of celebrations on June 10. We’re hugely keen to incorporate this information into the Hamworthy story so that it can be passed on for generations to come.”

More details can be found on a special Facebook page or contact sarah.carter@wartsila.com or 01202 662833.