This Woodbridge Story was created by Bob Merrett, whose deep connection to Woodbridge, as a resident, historian and active member of the community, inspired him to document and share its rich history.

Bob holds a first degree from the University of South Wales and a PhD from the University of Cambridge.

For many years, Bob gathered information about the town, researching local history and creating displays for Woodbridge Museum. Following his retirement in 2000, he devoted even more time to the project, steadily building what would become an extraordinary archive of photographs, stories and historical records. In 2022 this work found a wider audience through the launch of The Woodbridge Story website, which Bob called ‘Woodbridge Virtual Museum’.

Motivated by a desire to make local stories accessible, Bob spent countless hours researching, collecting and organising material that might otherwise have been lost or forgotten. Through his curiosity, generosity and exceptional attention to detail, he has preserved a remarkable record of Woodbridge’s people, places and events.

The Woodbridge Story reflects Bob’s own research, knowledge and, at times, personal interpretation of the town’s history. The collection was compiled over many years and reflects the information available at the time, so some details may have since changed or require further research.

This work has now been generously donated to Woodbridge Museum, ensuring it remains a lasting and valuable resource for future generations. Woodbridge Museum is deeply grateful to Bob and his family for their support, and for enabling this important work to continue to be shared.

Shown here is Bob upon being made an Honorary Freeman of Woodbridge in July 2016.