GRAYS residents, councillors and community groups came together yesterday to commemorate the 77th Anniversary of the D Day Mulberry Landings.
The event, which took place at the Mulberry Bench, has become an annual community fixture since the bench was relocated to Kilverts Field following the demolition of Mulberry Square last year. The bench memorialises the role that Thurrock played in building the Mulberry Harbours for D Day.
A poppy wreath was laid by local councillors Martin Kerin, Jane Pothecary and Tony Fish. As well as local residents and the Seabrooke Estate Residents Association, also in attendance were The Thurrock Knitting Circle.
Following the commemoration, Cllr Martin Kerin said:
“It is important to be back at the Mulberry Bench, remembering the sacrifices made at D Day. It was an honour to lay a poppy wreath, and to commemorate the bravery of those who fought for our freedom 77 years ago.
“Ever since the Mulberry Bench was relocated to Kilverts Field, we said that we would come together, every year, to commemorate the Mulberry Landings.
“The bench is much-loved and much-used by the Grays community. It is inspiring to see a little piece of Thurrock history being used all year round. It is important to remember the role that Thurrock played in building the Mulberry Harbours – and this annual event helps to do just that.
