Service for prisoners of war held at St Faith's Crematorium

Families with ties to prisoners of war were joined by Royal British Legion standard bearers at St Faith’s Crematorium as a cherry tree of commemoration was planted.

During the war, almost 200,000 British and Commonwealth prisoners were held in the Far East, many in appalling conditions

For many years, the crematorium was home to a cherry tree that honoured the memory of armed forces veterans, in an area of the grounds where some veterans' ashes are scattered.

However, that tree had started to decline.

Deborah Leah, business leader at the crematorium near Norwich, said: “It was so important to all of us at St Faith’s that we replaced our old cherry tree.

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“The tree is not just about preserving a symbol of support but, more importantly, continuing the legacy of those who sacrificed so much.”

Pauline Simpson, chaplain of the Far East Prisoners of War organisation, led a service at St Faith's Crematorium (Image: Dignity)

Pauline Simpson, chaplain of the Far East Prisoners of War organisation, led a short service and a minute of silence was held to pay tribute.

The families with ties to the prisoners gathered after the short service for a moment of reflection over tea and cake.

They also took the opportunity to share old photos of the memorial and family members, reconnect with one another and remember loved ones who had passed on. 

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Mrs Simpson, who received a British Empire Medal in the Queen's New Year's Honours List in 2016, was pleased to see a new tree planted.

“We are grateful to everyone who joined us in commemorating these heroes and sharing in the warmth of unity," said Mrs Simpson.

“It was wonderful seeing some of the old photos, they really brought a personal touch to the occasion and allowed families to reconnect in such a meaningful way.”