Croft residents fundraise for new war memorial for forgotten soldiers

In June, a history group from Croft noticed that the village’s memorial doesn’t include the names of all fallen soldiers from the village.

Only 20 out of 24 First World War soldiers were named on the memorial, and none from the Second World War were included.

The group appealed to Croft Village Memorial Hall to add the names of the fallen soldiers from the Second World War, but were told that the memorial should stay as it is.

A meeting was held to discuss adding the remaining First World War soldier, but ultimately it was decided that their names should not be included due to the fact three are named on another parish’s memorial.

The fourth solider, it was determined, did not have enough evidence to prove that he actually went to war, despite the fact the group have identified his official war grave in the village.

So, the residents decided to take matters into their own hands and begin fundraising for a new memorial.

A poppy with the names of forgotten soldiers in Croft (Image: Supplied) “Once we knew that the names were missing, there was no way we could ignore it,” said Cheyvonne Bower, local historian.

"We’re hopeful that the hall and church committees would recognise the importance of adding these names to our community, but when that didn’t happen, we knew we have to step up.

“This memorial means a great deal to us as it will serve as a lasting tribute to those who have shaped our village’s history and future.”

To help raise the necessary funds for the memorial, a 2025 calendar of historical images has been created by the group to sell.

An online fundraiser has also been set up on GoFundMe, which has already raised £285.

“This isn’t just about building a memorial, it’s about preserving our heritage and ensuring that all those who gave their lives are rightly honoured, together,” said Wendy Mcauliffe, descendant of Private George Daintith, one of the soldiers to be named on the new memorial.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received already, and we’re confident we’ll reach out goal with everyone’s help.”

The group are aiming to raise £1,000 and have the memorial completed by the 80th anniversary of VE Day next year.

If you would like to help support the fundraiser, you can do so by clicking the link here.