Dudley Council to honour First World War heroes with tree-lined avenue
Dozens of trees are set to line a main road in Coseley as part of plans to revive a tradition which honours local heroes of the First World War.
Dudley Council is planning to plant more than 60 trees along the Birmingham New Road.
They have been working with a number of partners to fund the project, including The Canals and Rivers Trust and Holden's Brewery, who have also helped with funding a large number of trees along the route.
Dudley's Mayor, Councillor Steve Waltho, has described it as a 'fantastic idea' and something residents will fully support.
He said: "It's not something you hear of everyday and it will be a fantastic addition to the rich heritage and patriotism we have here in Dudley."
Back in 1928 a line of trees known as Coseley's Avenue of Remembrance was planted and dedicated to commemorate the 350 men who gave their lives in the Great War of 1914-1918.
Kingswinford Royal British Legion branch secretary Fred Gorman, aged 74, said: "It sounds like an absolutely fantastic idea. I'm very pleased about it indeed.
"The centenary was last year so it's very moving that soldiers of the First World War are being remembered in this way.
"Dudley is very much filled with history and there are many veterans from both wars that still live around the area and I think they will all feel extremely proud and honoured by this gesture.
"The Birmingham New Road is a long stretch of road so it is the perfect setting for drivers and people alike.
"I'm originally from Coseley so personally I feel it is very touching gesture by the council. It is a different way but also a permanent way to be remember the soldiers and ties in wonderfully with the regeneration of Dudley."
Councillor Hilary Bills, cabinet member for environmental services, added: "These trees will be a fantastic welcome for people as they arrive in Dudley borough and I am really looking forward to seeing this project grow.
"Planting trees helps to further improve air quality, benefit people's health, encourage bio-diversity and helps to reduce the risk of flooding.
"Not only that, there has been an historic tradition in Coseley in honouring the people who gave their lives in conflict, and this is very much about keeping that tradition alive.
"We are really grateful to our friends at Holden's Brewery and the Canals and Rivers Trust who have helped make this project possible."
