Princess Anne honours fallen firemen

May 21 2008 By Gary Marks

A NATIONAL monument to honour fire-fighters who lost their lives in the line of duty has been unveiled by the Princess Royal in Staffordshire.

The granite Firefighters Serving Humanity has taken two years to make.

It took up its new home at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Alrewas, near Lichfield, when it was unveiled by Princess Anne at an event yesterday that was attended by chief fire officers from across the country.

Guests of honour were the families of firefighters who have lost their lives whilst serving, including five who died in a vegetable warehouse blaze in Atherstonon-Stour, in south Warwickshire, last November.

Gerry Clarkson, chairman of the Firefighters Memorial Charitable Trust, said: "The trust is delighted that their patron Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal has graciously agreed to unveil the monument, which recognises the dedication and skills of the men and women serving in the Fire and Rescue Service."

Bob Russell, director of safer communities at Staffordshire Fire Service, said: "We're extremely proud that this monument is to be sited within the county.

"We hope people from across the country will take the time out to come and visit this new monument, which is dedicated to past present and future firefighters."

* For more information about the Firefighters Memorial Charitable Trus,t visit www.firefighters memorial.co.uk.