A walk to remember: Veteran's trail receives donation from homebuilder
Following Remembrance Day, the Telford's Veteran Trail received a £500 donation from Barratt Homes to support its mission of informing the town’s residents about its connections to its military history and the people who have fought for them.
The trail, located near Barratt Homes’ Scarlet View and Silkin Meadows developments, was an idea submitted by the charity’s current chairperson, Erica Hanson-McKenzie, for its 50th birthday celebrations.
Thanks to generous donations from residents in the community, the trail was created and officially opened by the HRH Queen Consort.
Erica said: “Telford is the perfect place to celebrate veterans. It has many military links and there are, at the time of writing, 8,066 veterans and over 16,000 service personnel living in the borough.
“These are individuals that the Telford's Veteran Trail wants to celebrate, creating a dedicated place to recognise their contribution and bravery because, sadly, it is often living veterans who are forgotten.”
Through different sales and initiatives, the charity was able to make donations to other local veterans’ charities. Last year it donated £500 to the Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club.
It is currently raising money for diving with the injured and the Dawley branch of the Royal British Legion.
Erica continued: “Donations like this one from Barratt Homes will directly support the maintenance and promotion of the trail, ensuring it remains a place of reflection and learning.
“Funds will be used for updating displays, adding new veteran stories, maintaining the quality of the path, and hosting community events that foster remembrance and unity.”
Erica’s work is essential for the preservation of the heritage and stories that shape the identity of Telford and surrounding areas. The trail provides a peaceful setting for families and a communal space where individuals can honour those who served.
It strengthens local pride and ensures that future generations understand and appreciate the contributions of veterans.
Erica added: “It’s through the sale of the plaques we can help local veterans’ charities. We are a non-profit organisation, all volunteers with no paid staff.
“Supporting local charities is vital for the well-being of any community. Donations to organisations like ours help maintain cultural and historical projects that benefit everyone.
“By investing in local causes, individuals contribute to a thriving, connected community and support programs that may not receive funding but have a significant local impact.”
For those who would like to honour a living veteran and buy a plaque for them, more information is available on the Telford's Veteran Trail website.
Adrian Evans, Managing Director at Barratt West Midlands, said: “We are proud to support the Telford's Veteran Trail on its mission to uplift and memorialise the living members of the Shropshire Armed Forces community.”
