THE Deputy Mayor and an Alderman joined forces on Sunday to unveil a new memorial in recognition of the valour of the armed forces in recent conflicts.

The granite Celtic Cross outside St Mary’s Church in Marshalswick was the idea of Sandridge parish councillor John Foster and was commissioned by local memorial masons J.J. Burgess who provided the cross with the inscription on the basis that payment will follow when funds have been raised.

Deputy Mayor Beric Read and Alderman and former Mayor, Jenny Stroud, unveiled the cross which bears the words, In recognition of the valour of our armed forces in recent conflicts, followed by, Here we mark the price of freedom.

The service was led by the Rev Gary Russell of St Mary’s Church and among the guests were the chair of the St Albans branch of the Royal British Legion, Don Dell, Major David Squibb of the Salvation Army and David Terrar, chairman of Sandridge parish council.

Everyone observed a minute’s silence in memory of those who have lost their lives fighting for this country and freedom.

Although some money has been raised already, Cllr Foster is appealing to the local community to help raise the remaining funds. Donations should be sent by cheque made out to the PCC and with the words Memorial Dedication on the back to the church in Sherwood Avenue, St Albans AL4 9QA.