Phase Two - Commemorative Benches

Once again highlighted in the introductory document to the ‘Benchmark at Grinham’s Wood’ initiative is the desire of the local community to commemorate those village stalwarts who served their country during the 2nd World War. With 2025 being the 80th anniversary of the ending of the conflict it was deemed an apt time to remember those who made it possible for us to live our lives in freedom. It was also recognised if their stories were not recorded now - they would be lost for ever.

Work is underway to generate the funds and volunteer labour necessary to have 10 memorial benches installed along the 2 mile riverside path from the Union Chainbridge to St Thomas’s Island. Each bench dedicated to the memory of someone from the community who served their country and flanked by a sandstone plinth with a tablet inset detailing elements of their war time service and story. The aim being to have all 10 benches and plinths in situ prior to the 80th anniversary.