UNISON retired member Harry Parkes will finally see his campaign for a memorial to the WWII Bevin Boys realised this week.
The long-awaited recognition takes place on 7 May, when a stone sculpture by artist Graeme Mitcheson, to those who were conscripted to work in the UK’s coal mines, is officially dedicated by Sophie, Countess of Wessex.
This historic event was brought about in no small measure by UNISON retired member Mr Parks, who has received an award from the president on behalf of the East Midlands retired members’ committee for his dedication.
President Chris Tansley said: “Harry has worked so hard for this day. It’s not just a fitting tribute to the men who were the Bevin Boys, but to Harry himself, who never gave up the dream of ensuring these heroes of WWII get the recognition they deserve.”
Harry Parkes, who was a Bevin Boy himself, will attend a private service in the chapel at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, prior to the public dedication ceremony.
