The Isle of Wight is set to welcome back the Victoria Cross Trust next month, as the charity makes its third visit to the Island to carry out restoration work on military graves.
Between July 7 and 9, a team of military veterans and volunteers will be working across several Isle of Wight Council cemeteries — St Paul’s Cemetery (Halberry Lane), Newport Cemetery (Fairlee Road), Northwood Cemetery, Ryde Cemetery and East Cowes Cemetery — cleaning and repairing headstones and memorials.
Although not a council site, the team will also undertake work at St Mildred’s Church in Whippingham.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and observe the work being carried out. During their visit, the Trust will provide regular updates on locations and progress via its Facebook page.
Their efforts will contribute towards the Trust’s ongoing ambition to restore at least 50 memorials each year.
The charity operates entirely free of charge, relying on public donations to cover essential costs such as travel and specialist equipment.
The team travels across the UK preserving the memory of service personnel who dedicated their lives or careers to serving the country.
Alongside its restoration work, the Victoria Cross Trust also engages with schools, helping to educate young people about the bravery and sacrifice of past generations.
Keith Lumley, chair of trustees, said: “It is always an honour to return to the Isle of Wight and continue our work caring for the graves of those who served.
“Every headstone we clean helps to ensure that the service and sacrifice of these individuals is remembered for future generations, and we are grateful for the warm welcome and support we receive from the local community.”
Councillor Ian Dore, the Isle of Wight Council’s Armed Forces Champion, welcomed the group’s return.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Victoria Cross Trust for returning to the Isle of Wight and carrying out such important work,” he said.
“On behalf of the council, I would like to thank all the volunteers for their dedication in helping to preserve the memory of those who served our country. Their efforts ensure these stories are not forgotten.”
Residents wishing to support the charity can make a donation via the Trust’s GoFundMe page.
Further information, including updates during the visit, is available on the Victoria Cross Trust website and Facebook page.
