History Society Honour World War One Heroes with Memorial
At the start of the year, The History Society at Cronton Sixth Form voted to fundraise for a memorial at the College, in honour of the 100 year anniversary of the beginning of World War One.
Students held a bake sale to raise money for the memorial, selling cakes and biscuits linked to the theme of remembrance; the students managed to raise just over £100.
The History Society chose a print of a painting by artist Jacqueline Hammond for the memorial, titled ‘Opening Horizon’. The painting depicts a landscape of poppy fields below a large expanse of sky, which the Society felt represented a future of peace and hope.
History Society president, Elizabeth Gregory from Widnes, said, “Some of the boys who gave their lives were younger than we in the History Society are now; this is why it is so important to honour their sacrifice. The world may be a completely different place today without their bravery”.
Fellow Society President, William Pridden from Warrington, added, “With the 100 year anniversary of World War One; now more than ever is there a responsibility to commemorate and celebrate the bravery on both sides of the conflict.”
Society member, Jack Walsh from Runcorn, said, “We must always remember those who have died in conflict throughout history; fighting for what is right and just. Without the sacrifice of these men both today and back then, we would not be the society we are today.”
The painting will be permanently displayed in the brand new conservatory area at the College, along with a commemorative plaque.
Claire Parkin, History tutor at Cronton, commented, “I would like to say how proud I am of the society and their dedication to this cause, not only have they made sure the war is permanently remembered at the College, they have engaged the wider college community in the remembrance of this centenary year.”