Due to the position and the condition of the present War Memorial in Govilon, the community councillors in 2012 attempted to find an appropriate site for a new one.

When a suitable site could not be found, the Rector of Christchurch offered part of the churchyard as an alternative.

This idea grew and the initiative was taken by the church members themselves to build a Memorial Peace Garden at the foot of the graveyard at Govilon, with open and clear access for members of the public to spend time in contemplation, as well as providing a permanent memorial to the fallen.

It was suggested that a suitable memorial artwork be displayed and that the names of the fallen be entered on plaques as a focal point for the village.

The symbol of the artwork would be a Cross with a Dove of Peace, to enable all generations to remember the fallen in both World Wars and other conflicts and also look forward to a time of peace.

Plaques would also be made available to people from the village and surrounding area to commemorate loved ones who have passed away. A modest charge would be made for these plaques, with proceeds going towards the upkeep of the Memorial.

The present War Memorial in Govilon forms the gateway to King George V playing field and would remain intact, but the Peace Garden would provide a memorial space closer to the village centre.

It is the intention to use local labour and skills wherever possible and to involve the children of Llanfoist Fawr Primary School in researching those fallen who are named on the war memorial and the history of the village, which would be displayed on boards placed around the Garden.

An estimate of £12,500 has been obtained from a local stonemason for the first stage of the project, which is the Garden without the Cross.

The appeal has been launched with a donation from local County Councillor Kevin Williams and fund-raising is now underway.

In Christchurch on Friday April 29 at 7.30pm there will be a concert by the Phoenix Choir in aid of the Memorial Peace Garden. Tickets including refreshments cost £5 (free to children age 12 or under).