Come and have a look at this genuine Royal Ordnance Factory time recorder that was in action in Chorley during World War Two and is now back in operation at the ‘Ukraine Unit’ donation centre!

It’s a unique and symbolic way to connect our past and present when it comes to showing the community of Chorley & District pulling together during a time of conflict.

During World War Two, Royal Ordnance Factory Chorley was the largest munitions factory in the UK. Employing around 35,000 people at its peak, the workers clocked on and provided a large percentage of the munitions required by the British Armed Forces.

Our service personnel knew that the munitions they received, that was stamped with the letters ‘CY’, stood for having come from ROF Chorley, and therefore they knew it could be relied upon and would be good quality.

History is almost repeating itself. Rather than there being munitions packed in Chorley, we are now clocking on to pack humanitarian aid and life-saving supplies. In a similar way to ‘CY’ being stamped onto munitions during World War Two, when people involved in the war in Ukraine receive supplies from here and labelled as coming from Chorley, we want them to also take heart from knowing that everything is good quality and packed with pride.

I hope everyone can come and appreciate the novelty of this 85 year old time piece, have a look at the little accompanying display, and learn more about our local history and particularly ROF Chorley. Whilst there you can also look at our display of souvenirs and artefacts from Ukraine.

Please come and visit us to see what we do. We have had some special souvenir time cards printed, so that you can actually clock on using the wartime ROF Chorley time recorder, to show your support for Ukraine.

Although today, our efforts in Chorley won’t influence the military aspects of a war, together we can help the people being affected by it.