As we know 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the beginning of World War One. It is a time to remember and reflect upon all the soldiers who served and fought fiercely for their countries not only in the First World War but in all conflict that has taken place since.

Throughout the past five months with the help of over 130 different people and donations of £150,000 the Woldingham memorial has been rebuilt and unveiled today. As part of the Woldingham community I feel a great sense of pride when seeing this structure boldly standing in front of St. Paul's church. 
I had the chance to talk to the former church warden Christopher Roberts about the reasons for construction and some quick background information about this memorial. 
What I was most curious about was what were people motives and reasons for donating and supporting this project and Mr Roberts stated ' the people felt as though they owed it to the soldiers and it was a way of giving back and commemorating the soldiers who have died'. Mr Roberts himself had an great uncle who was killed during the First World War and so understands the donations as 'people in Woldingham have a lot of connections'. 
There has always been a memorial in Woldingham however it was a wooden plaque inside the church. Not only was it not visible there, it was also missing 12 names and became infested with woodworm! This new, professional and beautiful piece of architecture is a much improved version and fits perfectly in this small picturesque village. 
We are remembering not only 46 inscribed names of people from Woldingham but also other soldiers such as a regiment from Middlesex stationed in a camp known today as the Woldingham Garden Village, most who were killed in the battle of the Somme. Of the 46 inscribed names, however not all served in the world wars. A father and daughter from Woldingham were killed in Northern Ireland by the IRA whilst in the police force and one man who was shot down over Woldingham village itself. 

All were remembered on Sataurday afternoon when the memorial was unveiled by Lord-lieutenant of Surrey, Dame Sarah Goad followed with an emotional rendition of the national anthem. Many people came to watch, several wearing military attire.

Saturday 25th October 2014 - Katherine Trantor, Caterham School