Castle Park trees memorial for soldiers killed in Afghanistan
November 17, 2009 12:00 AM
As the nation stands still at 11am today (Wednesday) as an Act of Remembrance for those killed in conflicts since the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, a public appeal will be launched to pay for the planting of four semi-mature trees in Colchester Castle Park to commemorate the men of 16 Air Assault Brigade from Colchester Garrison who lost their lives last year in Afghanistan.
The living memorial is the idea of Colchester MP Bob Russell who last year twice visited troops serving in Helmand Province.
Mr Russell said: "I am grateful to Colchester Borough Council and the Commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade for agreeing to this suggestion. I believe it is one which the people of Colchester - individuals, companies and voluntary groups - will wish to support."
The trees will be planted, probably in January, in the Upper Park near the children's play area.
Mr Russell said that the target was £1,000 which will pay for the four trees and a plaque to commemorate those who served in Afghanistan last year. "If more is donated, then perhaps there can be a bench as well as rose bushes in memory of individuals who lost their lives." Any surplus will be used for welfare purposes.
Those wishing to make donations should make cheques payable to "HQ Colchester Station Central Bank" and send either to Bob Russell MP, Magdalen Hall, Wimpole Road, Colchester CO1 2DE; or to "Tree Memorial Appeal", 16 Air Assault Brigade, Gryphon House, Merville Barracks, Colchester CO2 7UT.
Mr Russell has placed Poppy Crosses in The Field of Poppies outside Westminster Abbey in memory of those from 16 Air Assault Brigade and The Royal Anglian Regiment who have lost their lives serving in HM Armed Forces.
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