A family is planning to hold a fundraising event next month to raise cash to build a war memorial in Carlton to honour the town’s fallen heroes.
The event takes place at the Elwes Arms on November 11 and all money raised will be used to fund a memorial which will be placed in Carlton Cemetery.
Paul Gunter, who is organising the event with his family, said it was a cause close to his heart after his nephew was killed in action while serving with the Royal Marines in Afghanistan.
L/Cpl Martin J Gill R.M, who was born and grew up in Carlton, was deployed to Afghanistan with 42 Commando, Royal Marines when he was caught in crossfire while out on patrol back in June 2011. Despite the best efforts of his comrades to save him, Martin unfortunately passed away as the result of his injuries. He was just 22 years old.
The family now believe that somewhere is needed to not only honour Martin, but also the other fallen soldiers who from Carlton.
Paul told Gedling Eye: “From my research, there have been to date, 55 service personnel from Carlton who have unfortunately lost their lives while serving their country on duty. This is from the Two World Wars.
“I have further research to do to find the names of those that may have been killed in action from subsequent conflicts; we believe these personnel deserve to be recognised.
“The memorial will be a token of appreciation and dedication set up in their memory to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. It will be a place where friends and family can visit and pay their respects.”
Plans for the Carlton War Memorial have now been approved by Gedling Borough Council and a plot of land has been chosen within Carlton Cemetery.
Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke said: “I have drafted a joint letter with Councillor Bob Collis, our Armed Forces Covenant Champion, giving Mr Gunter our full support in raising funds for and awareness of the Carlton War Memorial project.
“We think this is a very important project and we will help in any way we can.”
To help boost the funds needed to construct the memorial, a fundraising night will be held at the Elwes Arms on Oakdale Road. It’s being held on Saturday, November 11 from 7pm. Tickets are £12.50 this includes food and entertainment
For more details contact the Elwes Arms or Paul on 07946662017.
If you can help Paul with his research or have relatives or may know of any serving personnel from Carlton that have been lost in action to please contact Paul.
