A MEMORIAL paying tribute to those who lost their lives in war has been unveiled in Suckley.
A commemorative stone, which has been placed at the old quarry site at Longley Green, was revealed to more than 100 people at a service in the village on Armed Forces Day (June 27).
Family members of soldiers who lost their lives attended on the day, along with children from Suckley School, councillors and residents.
Peter Whatley, of Suckley Parish Council, moved to the village ten years ago and when he realised there were no public war memorials, he campaigned to get one installed.
Mr Whatley, who has been on the parish council since 2011, told The Observer: “I floated the idea that we should have a permanent war memorial in open space where anyone could walk up to it and the parish council liked the idea.
“It was a very slow burner to begin with, we didn’t get much interest at first but with the 100th anniversary of the First World War coming round, it started to get attraction.
“I think they are very important because there is a continuity in a village with a lot of the families.
“We had two members of a family killed in the First World War and they had relatives still living in the parish. We had other families who had people living within four or five miles of the parish.
“We still have people here who have a direct link through those who are killed in the two World Wars.”
Walter Huband, chairman of the parish council for more than 50 years, unveiled the stone and Reverend Anne Potter led the service.
Coun Sarah Rouse, district councillor for the area, added:
“Suckley Parish Council worked incredibly hard and have created a beautiful and fitting war memorial for Suckley.
“The ceremony was very moving and involved the whole community. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in such a special event.”
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin said: “We must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our way of life and we honour those who serve to uphold that tradition at home and abroad.”
