THE REDCAR Garden of Remembrance will have its official opening for the public after renovation on Saturday 23 October at 2.00 pm.
The Garden of Remembrance is currently used by the Redcar British Legion and military veterans for remembrance ceremonies. 80 years ago, 15 people lost their lives when Zetland Club was destroyed in an air raid on 21 October 1941. In their memory, The Garden of Remembrance was built on the site of the former club.
Amongst the improvements made, the garden now features a wall mural depicting the armed forces which was painted by local artist Drew Allan, a sculpture by local artist Graham Anderton, a fence painted by the students from the Princes Trust, R&C College, a paved area for ceremonies and a Remembrance Wall where people can purchase an engraved plaque/brick slip with a message to commemorate a loved one. Improvements to the garden will be on-going.
The event will commence with the parade of the Standard Bearers, followed by the welcome speech of the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Councillor Carole Morgan, and a short history of the garden presented by the Chairman of Redcar British Legion, Eric Howden BEM. Attendants can also look forward to the 'Local Vocal' Choir and the unveiling of the Sculpture and Remembrance Wall Plaques by the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Mrs Jo Ropner.
Redcar and Cleveland Mayor, Councillor Carole Morgan, said: “We are delighted to welcome you all to the opening of the Redcar Garden of Remembrance. We value very much this place and the memory of those who lost their lives serving our country, the garden is not only for the veterans but for the whole of the community to use in commemoration of their loved ones.
“This renovation wouldn't have been possible without my predecessor Cllr Billy Wells leading on the project, the tradesmen who contributed with materials and labour free of charge, and the donations coming from businesses and the public, to whom I would like to give my sincere thanks."
To purchase a remembrance brick to place on the wall, make a donation or for further information, please contact Jane Holmes jane.holmes@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk or Cllr Billy Wells billy44wells@gmail.com.
More details can be also found on the Redcar Garden of Remembrance Facebook Page.