Arboretum founder to talk on NMA challenges

01 February 2010

On 11 February, founder of the National Memorial Arboretum, David Childs, is set to speak about the early days of the Arboretum and sign copies of his book 'Growing Remembrance: The Story of the National Memorial Arboretum'.

The event will offer the perfect opportunity to learn more about the creation of this spiritually uplifting place which is set within The National Forest in Staffordshire and is part of The Royal British Legion group of charities.

The project began just twelve years ago, with no money, no land, no staff and no trees. Now, with thanks to the National Lottery, Lafarge, the Ministry of Defence, The Royal British Legion and thousands of people and organisations across the country, it is rapidly emerging as a world-renowned Centre of Remembrance.

The site is now home to 150 acres of trees and memorials, including the striking Armed Forces Memorial, and over 300,000 visitors a year enjoy the beautiful surroundings and reflect upon the special symbolism of the memorials and wider environment.

"The National Memorial Arboretum was conceived as a living tribute to the war time generations of the twentieth century and as a gift to their memory for future generations to reflect upon and enjoy" says chief executive, Charlie Bagot Jewitt.

"From the start it was seen as a place of joy where the lives of people would be remembered by living trees that would grow and mature in a world at peace. The creation of the Arboretum has been an eventful and moving journey and its development is something which David Childs can take great personal satisfaction in."

David Child's presentation, followed by the book signing, begins at 2.00pm.

The Arboretum is open every day from 9am to 5pm (or dusk). Entry is free.