Stephen Metcalfe MP sows seeds for War Commemoration Project

Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, joined artists at the Laboratory and two local primary schools to start work on a memorial that will mark the 100 year anniversary of the First World War.

The memorial will feature a mosaic, designed by Laboratory artist Lisa Smith, depicting the silhouette of soldiers against the backdrop of the Union Jack, which will be surrounded by poppies. The local MP joined children from Vange and Pitsea Primary School’s to start planting the seeds, which once in flower, will provide a very fitting frame for the mosaic.

Mr Metcalfe commented: “This is a wonderful way to commemorate this big anniversary of the Great War. It will provide a poignant reminder to anyone visiting the park of the great sacrifices that were made 100 years ago so that we can enjoy freedom today.”

“It is also vitally important that we communicate this to the children in our community and I was delighted that Vange Primary School and Pitsea Primary School were able to take part.”

The mosaic forms part of a much wider commemorative project being organised by the local MP which currently involves initiatives here in the UK, Germany, and France. 

Mr Metcalfe championed the project in the House of Commons last week saying that it will “see schools, veterans, organisations, sports bodies, clubs and societies in Basildon and its twin towns in France and Germany  come together to create a unique trilingual exhibition.” The exhibition, entitled Never Forget, aims to explore social attitudes both then and now and provide an opportunity to “remember that however dark the hour, there is always hope to be found."

He added: “I am really pleased to be involved with such a fantastic international initiative to mark this important anniversary. I look forward to seeing it unfold in the local area and hope that it will provide people with an opportunity to pause and remember those who gave their lives for our country.”