Ashington Cricket Club Commemorative Tree Project Nears Completion as VE Day 80th Anniversary Approaches

19 March 2025

The Ashington Cricket Club's commemorative tree project to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day is entering its final stages, with the unveiling ceremony now just two months away.

Following the successful fundraising campaign that raised over £20,000, significant progress has been made in preparing the site for the 177 personalised commemorative plaques that will honour Ashington residents who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.

The Reiverdale Scout Group has played an instrumental role in bringing this project to fruition. Under the guidance of Susan Laverick and fellow scout leaders, the young people have been actively involved in both the historical research and practical aspects of the memorial.

The scouts have worked alongside local historians Margaret Allinson and David Wise to ensure the accuracy of the historical information for each plaque. Their commitment extended to the physical work of tree planting, and carefully counting and mapping the site to ensure every fallen service member will be properly commemorated.

"The dedication shown by our scouts has been remarkable," said Susan Laverick of Reiverdale Scout Group. "They've embraced every aspect of this project with enthusiasm and respect. From researching the stories of those who fell to getting their hands dirty planting trees, they've demonstrated the very best of community spirit."

The project has been coordinated with the professional expertise of several key partners. Local company WL Straughans carried out essential groundwork, while DS Wright Tree Surgery Ltd has provided their specialist services for the planting of the new trees, supplied by Northumberland County Council’s Great Northumberland Forest.

"We'd like to acknowledge the professional work of Straughans and Wright Trees, whose expertise has been vital to meeting the high standards this memorial deserves," said Steve Storey, Chair of Ashington Cricket Club. He added, the project has also benefited from the dedicated support of Ashington Town Council officers, with particular thanks due to Stephen Humphrey for funding and coordination at the outset, and Mark Air and Ryan Appleby, who supported tree planting.”

The newly planted trees have now taken root alongside the existing memorial trees, and the wildflower meadow area is being prepared for spring planting. The personalised plaques are currently in production with Falon Nameplates and will be installed in the coming weeks. Storyboards with information about the project and its funders are being designed by Barry Mead and produced by Spotty Dog Signs.

Chair of Ashington Town Council, Cllr Mark Purvis commented: “As we count down to the unveiling ceremony, it's wonderful to see how this project has brought different generations and community groups together. The scouts' contribution has been invaluable alongside the leadership and commitment of the Ashington Branch of the Royal British Legion, ensuring this living memorial will continue to be appreciated for decades to come."

Save the Date: Unveiling Ceremony

The official unveiling of the commemorative plaques and trees will take place at Ashington Cricket Club on Sunday 18th May at 11am, coinciding with national commemorations of the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend this significant community event. The cricket club bar will be open and catering will be available following the ceremony.

Marjorie Chambers, Chair of the Ashington Branch of the Royal British Legion said, "With just two months until we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this project stands as a testament to Ashington's enduring commitment to remembering those who gave everything for our freedom. We look forward to welcoming the community to this special occasion."