The Remembrance Sunday service in Ellesmere Port on November 10 was held at the new Normandy Veterans Association memorial stone at the Stanney Lane, Whitby Road junction.
Cheshire West and Chester Council worked closely with the Wirral and Chester branch of the association to ensure that the new setting met the needs of members and all those who take part in a number of remembrance ceremonies annually. The project was part of major junction landscaping improvement works.
Members of the association, veterans, councillors and local residents gathered to see the memorial officially unveiled last Thursday, November 7 in preparation for Remembrance Sunday.
Richard Minshull, of Ellesmere Port, was there.
Executive member for culture and economy, Cllr Stuart Parker, said: “The location of the town’s Normandy Veterans’ Stone was assessed whilst plans for huge improvements to the nearby crossroads were being put in place.
“After speaking with the veterans association it became clear that a more suitable location to act as a permanent home for the stone was needed and we worked together to finalise the new layout, bearing in mind the importance people attach to the monument.
“We are really pleased that the new location is not only more accessible for visitors but will now become a much more pleasant area for those who take part in the annual processions and ceremonies.”
The stone will become a focal point for the town, with improvements including being repositioned on a granite plinth with new lighting, benches, trees, flowerbeds and flagpoles. The plinth has been designed to ensure easier access for visitors.
Yvonne Innes, secretary of the Normandy Veterans Association’s Wirral and Chester branch, said: “Last year our branch members voted unanimously in favour of the new layout designs and I’m delighted to see the plans come to fruition and the Stone become much more prominent.
“I have received so many comments already saying what a good job has been carried out and what a difference it has made. I hope Ellesmere Port residents will continue to pay their respects there for many years to come.”
The works were funded through town centre improvements scheme and were a key priority highlighted in the Ellesmere Port Development Board’s Vision and Strategic Regeneration Framework.
Local member, Cllr Justin Madders, said: “This is now a key junction for the newly built West Cheshire College and the University Church of England Academy building and I am pleased that our town’s future can sit alongside, and complement, our past.”
