Statues a 'poignant' addition to memorial garden

Soldiers standing in silhouette at Boston Memorial Garden

Statues of two soldiers standing in silhouette have been added to Boston’s Memorial Gardens.

The council said the new features, funded by donations from residents, were "a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made for our freedom" by those killed during both world wars.

The hand-crafted artworks stand at either side of the entrance to the Memorial Gardens' path, which is lined by regimental plaques.

Boston-born D-Day veteran Les Budding said: "All this has been down to the generosity of Boston people and their donations which have gone into purchasing the silhouettes for the Memorial Gardens. Thank you to you all."

The statues were created by a friend of Philip Collins, whose father Frederick served during World War Two as part of 45 Commando Royal Marines alongside Mr Budding.

Council leader Anne Dorrian with Les Budding (front right), Gary Huggins of Holbeach Memorial Company, June Jay, Andrew Welsh, chairman of the Royal British Legion Boston branch and Philip Collins

Councillor Anne Dorrian, leader of Boston Borough Council, joined Mr Budding, members of the local branch of the Royal British Legion and the Memorial Garden Committee to see the statues in place.

She said: "The silhouettes are a very fitting tribute to all the Boston war heroes who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today.

"The statues have been beautifully crafted and I am grateful for all the efforts of the Boston Branch of the Royal British Legion, the Memorial Gardens Committee and Holbeach Memorial Company, in arranging this touching tribute to those who gave their lives in the defence of our country.

"Please do come and see the silhouettes for yourselves. It’s right that we pay our respects to the fallen but we can also enjoy this beautiful and peaceful part of the town centre."

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