Local MP pays tribute at Commons Garden of Remembrance

This week, local MP, Mel Stride, placed a stake in Parliament’s Constituency Garden of
Remembrance as a tribute to Central Devon constituents who have served, or continue to
serve, to defend and protect our democratic freedoms and way of life.
The Constituency Garden of Remembrance was first opened by the Speaker of the House of
Commons, Sir Lindsey Hoyle, in 2021. It has become an annual feature and part of a
calendar of Remembrance activity on the Parliamentary Estate.
All 650 constituencies represented in the House of Commons are reflected with a
Remembrance stake, which is placed in the ground by the Member of Parliament on behalf
of their constituents.
MPs can choose to write a few words on the back of their constituency stake if they wish,
and this year Central Devon’s stake featured a touching tribute from Captain Alexander C
Scougall RN Rtd. It read, “From the fields, factory floors and service industries, they respond
to the call to defend freedom. We shall always remember those who never returned to enjoy
that hard-won freedom.”
Speaking after placing his stake, Mr Stride said: “It is an honour to represent Central Devon
in the Constituency Garden of Remembrance, and Captain Scougall’s words made the tribute
all the more special.
“Remembrance is a time to pay tribute to those who have given their lives in service to our
country and show appreciation to those who continue to fight for us.”
This year marks the 80th anniversaries of momentous battles and turning points of the
Second World War and is a main focus of many of The Royal British Legions 2024
Remembrance events.
You can read more on their website: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-
involved/remembrance