Royal British Legion benches unveiled at Swanspool Gardens in Northamptonshire
Two striking new benches have been officially unveiled at Swanspool Pavilion and Gardens in Wellingborough, providing a lasting tribute to servicemen and women while creating a peaceful space for reflection within the Gardens.
Installed around the Royal British Legion flower bed, the benches are ornately designed and depict servicemen from the World Wars, complemented by red poppies as a symbol of remembrance. Their placement reinforces the area as a focal point for reflection, remembrance, and quiet contemplation.
From a Royal British Legion perspective, the benches represent more than just seating—they are a visible and permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community. They offer visitors a place to pause, reflect, and connect with the legacy of those who served, while helping to keep the principles of remembrance present in everyday community life.
“It has been a privilege to organise this unveiling and see these benches take their place within the Gardens. They stand as a simple but powerful tribute to the servicemen and women who have given so much for our country. Remembrance is at the heart of what we do at the Royal British Legion, and it’s important that we continue to create spaces like this within our communities. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported this project and helped bring it to life.” – Paul Sutton, RBL Chairman
The project has been made possible through the support of OEH Group and local Freemasons, demonstrating a shared commitment to honouring the Armed Forces community and ensuring that remembrance remains an integral part of the town’s public spaces.
“We are incredibly proud to have supported this project alongside our partners. Coming from an army family, remembrance has always been deeply personal to me, so it’s a real honour for OEH Group to help create something that pays lasting tribute to those who have served and sacrificed. These benches are more than just a place to sit—they are a space for reflection, respect, and remembrance, and I hope they mean as much to the community as they do to me.” – Daniel Sutton, OEH Group Operations Director
The unveiling was carried out by the Royal British Legion – Wellingborough & District branch, with members of the community in attendance to mark the occasion and pay their respects.
As a Director of OEH Group, I am proud to honour the armed forces and remember those we have lost in service to our country. Their courage and sacrifice protect the freedoms we so deeply cherish. – Ermir Sefolli, OEH Group Director
The local Freemasons have been working with the RBL over several years on several initiatives. We have many members both locally and nationally that have either served or have a personal affiliation with the armed forces. Through the generosity of local members and the Wellingborough centre we are proud to be able to fund these benches, in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us - Freemasons
The Royal British Legion continues to play a vital role in supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the UK. Those wishing to support its work or become a member can find more information and sign up by visiting the official website at www.britishlegion.org.uk, helping to ensure that remembrance and support for the Armed Forces community remain strong for generations to come.