The new memorial embroidery

A new memorial tapestry has been unveiled in Burntwood.

The embroidery has taken pride of place in the entrance of the Burntwood Memorial Community Association – formerly the Burntwood Institue – where a memorial plaque to locals who lost their lives during the war once stood.

The new memorial embroidery
The new memorial embroidery
The piece shows an industrial coal mine contrasting with the natural landscape of Cannock Chase.

A spokesperson said: “Both scenes would be familiar to the men who served in either of the two world wars.

“In the Great War, with its maze of trenches, underground tunnels were constructed and the skills of miners were used, including men from Burntwood. Some of the men were known as the Chase Terriers.

“Cannock Chase had the distinction of being the site of training camps used in both World Wars. Enlisted recruits came from all over the country, including local Burntwood men, and were housed in what became temporary towns.

“They could not help but admire the beauty of Cannock Chase.”

The Memorial Embroidery was designed by Barbara Marshall and worked by members of the Embroidery for Burntwood Community group, including Nicola Buffin, Pauline Goodfellow, catherine and Maureen Degregorio, Jan Gillett, Bette Hanson, Pauline Larner, June McDearmid, Barbara Marshall, Jackie Perry, Ken Whinrey and Anne Wooliscroft.

The unveiling was carried out by Jean and Colin Main whose son was shot down while on active service in Iraq. He went to Chasetown High School before becoming a pilot.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.