Memorial garden opening ceremony

The newly created Memorial Garden for Pulborough was officially opened in a special ceremony by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, Colonel Sir Brian Barttelot on Thursday August 14 at 10.50am, thereby marking the Centenary of the start of World War I.
Cllr John Wallace, Clive Longhurst, Col. Barttelot, Cllr OConnell and Martin DaleCllr John Wallace, Clive Longhurst, Col. Barttelot, Cllr OConnell and Martin Dale
Cllr John Wallace, Clive Longhurst, Col. Barttelot, Cllr OConnell and Martin Dale

Supported by the Chairman of Horsham District Council Cllr. Brian O’Connell, guests and local residents looked on as the parents of local hero James Brynin planted a rose in his memory.

Inspired by the loss of that young soldier’s life whilst on active service in Afghanistan last year, Pulborough Parish Council started looking for an ideal place to create the garden and settled on the site at the side of the Lower Street Car Park, because of its spectacular views across the Wildbrooks to the South Downs beyond, which provide an inspiring backdrop for people wishing to sit for a while and remember.

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The central feature of the new garden is a sculpture designed by the children from St. Mary’s School, Pulborough, of an open book mounted on a plinth featuring words of remembrance.

Martin Dale, former Pulborough Parish Councillor said: “The sculpture includes two simple inscriptions – the first recognises the sacrifices made by all those from the Parish who have given service to this country in times past and present, whilst the second is a short poem that sets the tone for the purpose of the garden.

“Once the unveiling had taken place, Clive Longhurst from the Horsham RBL Band sounded the Last Post and a minute’s silence was given. The rain stopped just in time for the Reveille and the guests were invited to explore the garden and head to the Oddfellows Arms who had laid on some food and coffee.”

The gardens surrounding the central sculpture have been designed by students from Brinsbury College, and created by S.R. Brierley Groundwork Services to be a peaceful, tranquil place for rest and contemplation, and include some beautiful flowers such as Hostas, Irises, Lupins, Dianthus and Violas with a strong presence of aromatic Lavendula.

Report contributed by Christine Mortimer, Pulborough Parish Councillor, and Martin Dale. Pictures contributed by Martin Dale.