A procession helped mark the cutting of the ground for a new war memorial in Fleet Hargate on Sunday.
Long time supporter of veterans Harold Payne has long said he’d like to build the Tree of Life memorial alongside his memorial garden on the A17.
His idea is that it will provide Lincolnshire with a memorial to those who died in more recent conflicts, as well as those who lost their lives in the world wars from across the Commonwealth.
Sunday’s procession was led by Harold in his 432 personnel carrier with three pipers and Holbeach Air Cadets there, along with members of the public.
Around 100 people from across the country came to witness the turf being cut.
“It was quite an emotional moment,” said Harold. “I told the veterans I supported that once the last one had gone I’d build this monument.
“Now there’s none left it’s time to do it.
“The gardens are looking fantastic and the new memorial will be something for Lincolnshire.
“There’s nothing in the county been built for veterans since the Second World War.”
Harold hopes to lay the foundations of the memorial, for which he’s been fundraising for years, before the winter.
“If anyone has any bricks or materials they can donate they would be most welcome,” he continued. “It’s going to be a wonderful monument to our boys.
“I’d also like to thank Chislett Plant Hire for the use of the digger.”
