By Isle of Wight Observer
The Victoria Cross Trust will return to the Island next month, for its third visit to carry out restoration work on military graves.
For three days, starting on July 7, military veterans and volunteers will work at St Paul’s Cemetery in Newport, Newport Cemetery on Fairlee Road, Northwood Cemetery, Ryde Cemetery, and East Cowes Cemetery.
Although not a council site, work will also take place at St Mildred’s Church in Whippingham.
The team will clean and repair headstones and memorials, helping to preserve the memory of service personnel who served their country.
Members of the public are welcome to visit and observe the work. The Trust will post updates on locations and progress during the visit on its Facebook page.
The work forms part of the charity’s aim to restore at least 50 memorials each year. The Victoria Cross Trust cleans and tidies war graves free of charge, and relies on public donations to cover costs, including travel and specialist equipment.
The charity also works with schools to help educate young people about the bravery and sacrifice of previous generations.
Keith Lumley, chairman of trustees, said: “It is always an honour to return to the Isle of Wight and continue our work caring for the graves of those who served.
“Every headstone we clean helps to ensure that the service and sacrifice of these individuals is remembered for future generations, and we are grateful for the warm welcome and support we receive from the local community.”
Cllr Ian Dore, the Isle of Wight Council’s Armed Forces Champion, thanked the volunteers for helping to preserve the memory of those who served.
Residents can support the charity through iw.observer/military-graves.