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02 July 2008 |
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Memorial bench for Brian Wembridge |
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A memorial bench in memory of Brian Wembridge, one of the firefighters tragically killed in the firework explosion at Marlie Farm on 3rd December 2006, has been unveiled by his family. Brian's wife, Lesley, had asked for the bench to be placed in a favourite location in the Asdown forest, on the ridge overlooking the Airman's Grave with views over the Sussex Weald towards the South Downs. The bench was provided for from the Memorial Fund established following the incident and was installed by the Conservators of Ashdown Forest on Lesley's behalf. Cllr Leslie Gillham, Vice Chairman of the Board of Conservators said, "We hope that the bench will provide somewhere for Brian's family, those that knew him and others using the forest to sit and take in the magnificent view and perhaps reflect on the service that Brian gave to the community throughout his Fire Service career." In addition to the bench, a memorial stone and tree were planted at Crowborough community fire station where Brian worked for many years. The stone was unveiled by his wife, Lesley, who was then presented with the traditional retirement gift for former firefighters of a polished axe by Des Prichard, Chief Fire Officer & Chief Executive of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. Mr Prichard said, "It is right that Brian's family should have these fitting tributes to remember him by. The dignity that Lesley, Chris, Mark & Catriona have shown over the last 18 months has been an example to all of us." For anyone wishing to visit the memorial bench it is best to park in Stonehill car park on the road between Nutley and Duddleswell (grid ref TQ456288) and proceed over the road and down the track before following the path to the left. The bench can be found in a small clearing along the bridleway.
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