War memorials across the borough have received a welcome refresh ahead of Remembrance, thanks to the collaborative work of Thurrock Council officers, ward councillors and local forums.
In Tilbury, the team worked with local councillors and the Tilbury Forum to carry out a range of improvements to Tilbury Civic Square and areas surrounding the War Memorial. Works included litter picking, replacing withered plants, adding fresh colour to borders and planters, and adding more planting to the green spaces in front of the Hub and nearby areas.
War Memorials in other parts of the borough such as Grays, Aveley, Purfleet and East Tilbury also received improvement works including painting and grounds maintenance activities to ensure they are well presented and ready for the ceremonies taking place on Remembrance Sunday (8 November).
Councillor Russell Cherry, Cabinet Member for Veterans, Enforcement and Environment, completed a site visit to all our War Memorials, alongside the council’s team, for inspection. Final checks will be made on Sunday morning to ensure all sites across the borough are ready for Remembrance Sunday.
Cllr Russell Cherry said: “As we prepare to mark Remembrance Sunday, it is important that our War Memorials remain fitting places for reflection, remembrance and gratitude. Thurrock has a proud and long-standing connection with the Armed Forces, with generations of servicemen and women, veterans and military families having called our borough home.
“These memorials stand as a lasting tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our country. I went out alongside the team on Wednesday to inspect the War Memorials in the borough and I would like to thank our council teams, local councillors and local forums for their efforts in ensuring they are presented at their very best. By caring for these important sites across the borough, we are honouring both our history and the veterans and Armed Forces personnel who continue to make such a valuable contribution to our communities today."
Residents are also invited to come together and attend one of the Remembrance services and wreath-laying ceremonies to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Armed Forces. Find out more information on all services happening in the borough here: Thurrock comes together to remember those who served and sacrificed | Thurrock Council.
