Against the National Interest with Elaine Pritchard

Author and playwright Elaine Pritchard tells the story of Vale Rawlings, a World War One conscientious objector from Burton-on-Trent in this talk with dramatic, live performance elements.

Why was this man, just four feet, 11 inches tall, who suffered from congenital heart disease and severe rheumatism, passed for active service in Category A?

Does the answer lie in a note found in Staffordshire archives saying: ‘It is against the national interest for this man to remain in civil employment’?

Is there a connection with anti-war activists the Wheeldons of Derby – now widely believed to have been framed and subjected to a show trial for their support for conscientious objectors?

Elaine will explore these questions in a presentation that blends a traditional talk with dramatic, live performance elements. Actors will bring Vale’s story to life using letters he and his sister Lily wrote in 1917 and original statements made to court cases and military tribunals.

Presented as part of Derby Peace Week 2026.

Suitable for adults.

Accessibility at Derby Museums