Video: ‘Heart of village’ war memorial in Todwick is unveiled at special ceremony

Hundreds turned out to see the unveiling of the new Todwick war memorial alongside members of the British Legion on Saturday 29th March.

The black marble obelisk was revealed to the crowd by Coun George Watson of Rotherham Council in a special ceremony outside the village hall.

Todwick Parish Council said they hoped the memorial, which is dedicated to the dead of two World Wars and ‘all conflicts since’, would become ‘the heart’ of the village.

Coun Eileen Northall, who led the project, said: “We knew that residents wanted a village to have a centre, and we hope the memorial will provide that- a place to meet, reflect and remember.”

Coun Gordon Watson said: “I was proud to unveil the memorial at today’s service.”

“War memorials are often hidden away in churchyards, but by placing one in the centre of the village we can raise awareness of the World Wars and pass the story on to future generations.”

“This will ensure we always remember those who gave their lives, along with honouring those who have died in conflict since the World Wars,” he added.

The unveiling was followed by an exhibition inside the village hall, where war memorabilia donated by the people of Todwick was displayed.

Among the items were uniforms, letters, medals and stories of local men who sacrificed their lives in the First and Second World Wars- some of whom were as young as 15 years old.

Joyce Walker, of The Pastures, said: “The councillors are to be commended for the memorial and this wonderful exhibition.”

“The memorial gives the village a centre point and is something we can all be truly proud of.”