War memorial plaques, rescued from a skip, now grace Gateshead Family Hub, honoring forgotten local heroes.
A ceremony happened on February 7. Gateshead’s Mayor, Kath McCartney, revealed them. Carr Hill School Choir performed at the event, honoring fallen heroes who almost got forgotten.
The plaques list CIU High Fell Club members. That club was on Old Durham Road. These members served in both World Wars and died.
Someone found the plaques in a dumpster. Luckily, they gave them to Thomas Miller Auctioneers. The auctioneers then gave them to Gateshead Council.
They went through the North East War Memorials Project. The group and Phil Howarth agreed on the hub location.
Councillor Stuart Green spoke about the plaques, saying each tells a story of brave local men. Their service was for the country. We must always remember them.
War memorials are often overlooked. These records were almost lost completely. The unveiling was at Deckham Family Hub, a caring place for the community.
Families can now reflect on remembering. The environment fosters joy and hope. Mayor McCartney said it was an honor, and she unveiled the plaques with pride.
She thanked the choir and the project volunteers. She also thanked the person who found them. Jean Atkinson is a volunteer for the memorial group. She said they had sought the plaques for years.
The CIU Club got demolished ten years prior. She is glad families will see them. Young children can learn local history. They will value our community’s past.
Gateshead Council wants to thank the finder publicly. They ask the person to contact the council. This way, they can express their gratitude.
