A LOCAL history group is keen to hear from anyone who has photographs or memories to share from a business that is this year celebrating its centenary.

The Ambrosia Creamery in Lifton was opened in 1917 by Alfred Morris as a dried milk factory — Ambrosia meaning ‘food from the Gods’.

To mark 100 years, the Lifton Local History Group is compiling photographs, memorabilia and memories for an exhibition to be held in the village in May.

Sandy Palmer, a member of the history group, told the Post: “We did a tour last year around Ambrosia and I think a couple of heads got together and thought we might like to work in conjunction with them for the centenary.

“We are hoping it will come together to be a really interesting snippet for people all around Lifton.

“It’s not just the factory output and products they made, it’s also the local input.”

The exhibition will be audiovisual.

History group members have been busy interviewing people to find out their memories — interviews include ex-employees and a present day apprentice.

The group hopes to compile memories from the past right the way through to the modern day. Sandy added: “A lot of employees in Ambrosia are descendants of previous employees — lots have got really interesting stories.”

The group has enjoyed delving into the company’s history. Sandy said they have found out things ‘nobody knew’ Ambrosia made — but added she did not want to spoil the exhibition!

While the exhibition itself will be held on May 27, 10am to 4pm at the Tamar room, Arundell Arms, there will be a special preview for those who have contributed to it.

Anyone who has photographs, memorabilia or memories they want to share with the history group can contact Sandy by emailing [email protected], who can arrange collection.

Sandy can scan photographs, which can then be returned immediately. Any memorabilia would only be required for 24 hours and would be well looked after.

The group would also welcome written down memories from or of ex-employees, including how they came to work there and the dates of employment. Sandy added: “That’s basically what people have been doing when we have been recording them — how they started there, what made them go there, what made them stay there so long — things that they remember and how it’s changed, especially health and safety.

“How products and the people that work there have changed.

“Back in the days before health and safety they were little monkeys really! And it’s really quite fun to hear.”