By Saul Cooke-Black

A Dutch man who arrived in Stroud on a quest to thank its generous people has unlocked the curious case of how a theatre in the Netherlands came to be named after the town.

Carl Mooijman hoped to track down people who helped Putten’s ancestors after the town and its people were violated by the Nazis in the Second World War.

Stroud Town Council clerk Helen Bojaniwska says Putten’s centre was razed to the ground and all its menfolk were rounded up and taken to concentration camps in 1944.

The Germans attacked after resistance fighters from the town killed some German officers.

Ms Bojaniwska said: “I understand that the story got back to Stroud, possibly through soldiers who visited the town after the liberation, and a collection was made to help the widows and orphans of Putten.

“Carl wanted to come to Stroud to say thank you and hopefully meet someone who might remember the collection.”

In recognition of the kind-hearted donation, residents in Putten created the theatre called Stroud which still stands today.

Mr Mooijman came bearing a commemorative spoon which he hoped to present to someone who remembered the collection.

If no-one is found it may be given to the museum.

Old newspapers uncovered by Town Councillor Chas Townley show the West Country retained links with the town after the war.

Anyone who remembers the collection for Putten’s widows and orphans is asked to contact Stroud Town Council at clerk@stroudtown.gov.uk.