Roehampton War Memorial Restored To Former Glory

thanks to battling war vet and council's cleaning contractors

In recent years its carved stonework had become stained and tarnished by the elements – but in time for this year's Remembrance Sunday ceremony, it has been cleaned up and brought back to its former glory thanks to the kind work of Connaught the council's cleaning contractors. Connaught have also very generously agreed to continue keeping the memorial looking spic-and-span following discussions with the town hall.

The council became aware that the memorial needed attention thanks to local resident and D-Day veteran John Hughes, who approached the housing department to ask if they could help restore the monument.

Mr Hughes, who is a tenant of the council, was just 18-years-old when he took part in the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. He was attached to a unit driving DUKW amphibious vehicles onto 'Sword' beach.

The DUKW, which quickly became known to the forces as 'The Duck', was a six wheeled vehicle used to transport men and materials onto the beaches and played a pivotal role in the success of the invasion.

Wandsworth's executive member for housing Cllr Martin D Johnson paid tribute both to Mr Hughes and to Connaught for their efforts. He said
"This important memorial commemorating the brave men of Roehampton who gave their lives in the First World War has been utterly transformed. It is thanks to the hard work and determination of Mr Hughes and the generosity of our contractors Connaught that have brought this about. The community owes them a great debt."

November 14, 2008