Memorial Benches – Strong Community Spirit Ensures A Happy Ending

This article starts with a tale of woe but soon turns into a very heartwarming story and one of community spirit in Wincanton. When one of the seats at the Wincanton War Memorial was damaged it appeared to be an act of vandalism but there was a very different side to the incident.

It turns out that there was a group of young people who had been taking part in an event at the Wincanton Memorial Hall who had sat on the seat in question; whether there was a little over exuberance, horseplay or whatever, the seat came apart but not as an act of vandalism.

They tried to report it to the police but found Wincanton Police Station closed, so they contacted the Memorial Hall management later in the week once they realised the incident was thought to be vandalism. They were so upset that they wanted to make recompense and will be trying to fund raise for Wincanton Poppy Appeal as a gesture.

Both the seats around the memorial have been inspected and a substantial amount of rot has been found, even though it was said to be seasoned yew and the seats are only seven years old. This could also have contributed to the seat being easily damaged.

After seeing press articles two local businesses came forward with offers of help. Mintern Fencing and Sheds Ltd and The Bennett’s Field Garage have each agreed to install and pay outright for both the seats. This outcome does emphasise the wealth of community spirit in the town and hopefully the seats will be in place for the Remembrance ceremony around the memorial in November.

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