PEOPLE in Dorset are being given the chance to go down in the history books.

A team of researchers at the Salvation Army want to collect the stories of anyone who has a connection with or has been helped in any way by the international church and charity.

The information gathered will be used as part of an oral history project to mark a very special 100 year anniversary.

The world famous ‘I’ll Fight’ speech of The Salvation Army founder, General William Booth was first given in May 1912 during his last public appearance at the Royal Albert Hall.

It has entered The Salvation Army folklore, but is still as relevant today as it was 100 years ago.

Lieutenant Colonel Graham Owen, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army in the South said: “This is a very exciting project for the Salvation Army to embark upon.

“The stories gathered will be an excellent testament to The Salvation Army’s positive impact on people’s lives.

“If anyone has a story about their links to us then we’d urge them to get in touch.

“It will help us keep a record of the difference we have made to others and may even encourage people who need support to come to us now.”

At Winton Salvation Army, Mary Randall MBE says she can recall many stories that the researchers might be interested in, including how an article on the Echo’s Faith Matters page helped boost donations of special treats at Christmas for the homeless on the Salvation Army’s meal run.

“So many of our ‘homeless friends’ have interesting stories,” she added.

“One lad called Simon, has badly ulcerated legs and because of his embarrassment when people asked what the smell was when he was waiting in A&E, he now comes regularly to our meal run for Nurse Rosemarie to dress his legs.

“He is anxious that folk know what taking drugs do and has given us permission to use the photo of his sore legs simply to stop anyone else ever thinking of using drugs.”

Anyone with a story should email gayle.munro@salvationarmy.org.uk by Wednesday February 8 including their full name, location and age.