A new memorial has been unveiled for two Wigan airmen killed in the Second World War
An old memorial bench for two Wigan airmen has been replaced.
Two Wigan airmen who died during the Second World War have been honoured with a new memorial.
Harry Pears Holme and John Mather Evans, who were both from Ince, served in Bomber Command and gave their lives in operations designed to disrupt the German war effort.
An old memorial bench for the pair was discovered at New Springs Allotments and committee members decided to raise money for a replacement.
During extensive research, it was discovered both men had connections with gardening and horticulture, making the allotments a fitting place for the memorial.
The unveiling of the bench was held as a surprise during a barbecue at the allotments.
It was attended by ward councillors Laura Flynn and Chris Ready, along with former councillor Ron Conway, who paid tribute to Harry and John and welcomed the efforts of the committee.
Coun Ready also paid tribute to Pat Henderson, whose painstaking research uncovered the history behind the memorial and will be passed to Wigan Museum.
He said: "A heartfelt thank you to Pat for bringing this important piece of local history back to life. Without his hard work and determination, the stories of these two brave airmen may never have been fully told. We owe Pat a great debt of gratitude for ensuring their sacrifice is remembered for future generations."
Harry died on April 28, 1943 during one of Bomber Command's little-known "gardening operations".
The term "gardening" was a code for mine-laying missions, when air crews would "plant vegetables" (mines) in designated sea areas, each identified by flower or vegetable names, helping to keep the true nature of the mission hidden.
John died on August 22, 1944 while taking part in a bombing raid on an oil refinery.
Researchers have traced and contacted Harry’s descendants, including his granddaughter, who lives in the south of England.
However, tracing John’s relatives has proved to be more difficult, as he never married.
His parents were Cadwallader Evans and Elsie Ingram Evans, and it is hoped cousins or other family members may still be living in Wigan.
Anyone interested in learning more about the men, or who may have information about John’s family, is asked to email [email protected].
The memorial bench can be seen at New Springs Allotments on Sunday mornings.