The Tank Deborah Film Installation: Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, Carlisle Castle, November 2018

The film was installed in it's own featured room at Carlisle Castle to mark the centenary of the First World War.

The aim was to create new knowledge for the public across various locations during the centenary of the First World War. Locations in France at Cambrai, in the South in Dorset at Bovington - the Royal Tank Regiment Museum and in the North West at Carlisle Castle the home of the Border Regiment connected with the Battle of Cambrai in 1916. The aim of the installation was to bring communities together over one narrative from World War One - the story of tank Deborah D51. It would help people understand the history of the First World War through those involved in the past and present, and by using this research show the significance of tank warfare and technology from the research into the story of this unique tank discovered in France.

The film and accompanying information formed part of the commemorative events held at Carlisle Castle over the Remembrance weekend, 10th and 11th November 2018. Hosted by the Museum, based in the Castle, the film ran throughout both days. It complimented a variety of activities, including the full-scale replica tank which was located within the Castle, throughout the weekend.

Few people knew about Tank Deborah so the film provided a unique opportunity to make residents and tourists aware of this project. Feedback collected from visitors over the weekend was very positive. Many people were delighted that an original tank had been lovingly looked after and was now in a purpose-built Museum in France. There were several discussions with visitors about the film which led to further observations about tanks, the First World War and preserving the past.

"Over 543 people visited the Museum throughout the weekend and the installation enhanced our existing displays and activities to provide a meaningful insight into another aspect of the First World War", Jules Wooding, Learning and Access Officer.
Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life hosted the Tank Deborah installation researched and produced by Associate Professor and cinematographer Senior Lecturer Paul Ottey as part of commemorations of the end of the First World War.
The creation and dissemination were created using the Production House method by Graham.