100th anniversary of WWI:
Commemorative paving stones ‘a fitting tribute’, says London Stone
Leading UK
natural stone paving experts London Stone respond to news that paving stones
are to be laid in Derbyshire to honour VC recipients.
Specially
chosen locations across Derbyshire have been marked to receive commemorative
stone homages to the men from the county, who went above and beyond to fight
for our country in the First World War. Those men who carried out heroic acts
of valour and selflessness that earned them the nation’s highest military
honour, the Victoria Cross, will be immortalised in fitting memorials for many
more generations when the special stones are laid.
A statement
has been issued with plans to carry this out as close to the day of the 100th
anniversary or the date on which those acts of valour took place for a total of
seven from the county, receiving a most fitting remembrance from entire communities
and future residents within Derbyshire. The men, all of whom died decades after
the end of the war are listed as Fred Graves, of Killamarsh; William Beesley,
of Church Gresley; Frank Roberts, of Bretby; William Gregg, of Heanor; Charles
Hudson, of Derby; Jacob Rivers, of Derby and Charles Stone, also of Derby.
Located in
Surrey, Kent and Essex, London Stone reacts to relevant news stories, research
and environmental issues relating to their industry. A company spokesperson
believes that such a tribute is a befitting and resolute memorial to those who
most rewardingly awarded the Victoria Cross for ‘valour in the face of the
enemy’:
“Hearing the
news that commemorative paving stones are to be issued and laid to remember WWI
VC recipients is wonderful. As many sacrificed their lives for the freedom of
so many others, it is a very worthy way in which these brave men will be
remembered for many generations to come.
“The use of
natural stone provides an excellent base for such purposes as its hardwearing
and durable nature will undoubtedly last the test of time, so that the memory
and legacy of these men will hopefully inspire people well into the future.”
The plans
for the commemorative pieces will also enable local residents to better
understand how their area fitted in with the First World War. Although 7 have
been confirmed for Derbyshire, a total of 628 Victoria Crosses are recorded as
being handed out to soldiers. Of these 173 were awarded to recipients born
outside of the UK who fought for Britain and 1 individual received not one but
two VC accolades. It is believed that similar commemorative stones could be
placed across the UK to honour those brave souls too.
Established
since 2005, London Stone delivers world class natural stone paving and bespoke
stone products to customers across the UK. Their wide knowledge of the industry
is easily identified when browsing their website at www.londonstone.co.uk