CROWDS of people gathered to witness the official unveiling of the Pershore Commemorative Garden this weekend.

The sun shone on more than 500 spectators who attended the service at Abbey Park on Sunday, which also marked the 66th anniversary of VE Day.

The garden – a timeless tribute to those who serve in the Armed Forces – is the result of a six-year project run by Pershore and District Royal Naval Association, working with Wychavon District Council.

The project cost about £8,500 and was paid for entirely by the association after years of fund-raising with Pershore Naval Social Club.

With the agreement of Buckingham Palace, a plaque has been made stating “May God protect our Armed Services and those who willingly serve our country. Long Live our blessed Sovereign”.

Trudy Burge, honorary secretary of Pershore RNA, said: “The current war memorial is situated within Pershore Abbey and is not accessible all day, every day.

“Our branch of the RNA decided that we would like to create an area not attributed to any particular conflict but to be an area for quiet reflection in honour of our armed services. It is for past, present and future military personnel in honour of their service.

“This project has been carried out in conjunction with Wychavon District Council who have kindly allowed us to build it on their land and in consultation with Pershore Town Council. We hope that it serves as a daily reminder of the sacrifices so many make for our freedom and democracy.”

A parade took place through the town ahead of the memorial’s opening and included representatives from all of Worcestershire’s Royal British Legion branches and neighbouring RNAs, as well as the Worcester Regiment, The Mercian Regiment, the Sea Cadets, Scouts and St John Ambulance.

Also in attendance was the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Michael Brinton; the chairman of Wychavon District Council, Councillor Linda Robinson, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Pershore, Councillor Chris and Jan Parsons.

Mr Brinton also laid a wreath on behalf of the Queen in commemoration of Pershore-born Claude Choules, the last First World War combat veteran who died last week, followed by Coun Parsons, who laid an anchor wreath on behalf of Pershore RNA and the people of the town.