The first phase of a new project giving people the chance to find out more about Watford's history has been completed.

Two boards have been installed in the town centre by Watford Borough Council as part of a new heritage trail, which will tell the story of Watford from its beginnings as a small settlement in the 12th century, its growth through Victorian times into an industrial centre, including becoming the printing capital of Europe, through to the modern day.

Key points of interest including buildings, events and the people who have have helped shape the history of the town have been recognised at the two town centre locations.

The first sign located by the Parade focuses on the 1930’s Grade II listed Town Hall building designed by Charles Cowles-Voysey, the Grade II* Peace Memorial sculpted by Mary Pownall Bromet, the 1920’s local listed Watford Central Library, and the pond which has transformed over the years since it was first constructed.

The second sign is in the High Street near St Mary’s Church and focuses on Anthony Joshua's Gold Postbox for his gold medal success at the London 2012 Olympics, the 800-year-old Grade I listed St Mary’s Church, the 320-year-old Grade II* listed Old Free School House endowed by Elizabeth Fuller as a charity school and the Almshouse cottages built 440 years ago to house eight ‘poor’ women.

The pilot is due to be expanded across the whole town, and will include new public art installations and clear and efficient wayfinding centred on existing landmarks, key attractions and destinations.

Watford Observer:

The boards have a QR code which can be scanned to learn more about the town's past

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “The launch of the heritage trail is a fun and interactive way to learn more about the past and bring history to life. The project’s aims are to protect, commemorate and celebrate Watford’s history and build local pride in where we live, while at the same time showcasing the town's heritage. The heritage trail highlights the town’s increasing importance as a centre for industry and business, as well as being the home of a growing community who are at the heart of the town’s success and popularity."

The signs also have a QR code, which can be scanned by a smartphone, which link directly to a page on the Watford Museum website to provide historical information and include fun facts, as well as to download the heritage trail as a foldable leaflet.

You can also access printed copies from Watford Museum and you can find out more at www.watfordmuseum.org.uk.