War veterans, school children and community members gathered to lay a lasting tribute to those who lost their lives in the Second World War.

A cherry tree and brass plaque was installed in New Malden High Street as a permanent reminder of the horrific bombings, which devastated the town during the Malden Blitz.

According to official records, 104 lives were lost in New Malden between 1940 and 1945, with the biggest single death toll occurring on August 16, 1940, when the train line and surrounding area was bombed.

Another strike on September 9, 1940, killed more civilians and as well as causing extensive damage and destroying hundreds of homes and business premises.

This year’s memorial was funded by more than 300 New Malden residents who packed out Christ Church to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Malden Blitz last year.

More than 50 people, many of which donated money for the memorial, returned for this year’s ceremony which took place in the high street near Waitrose on Saturday, October 15.

Reverend Stephen Kuhrt, who led service with Reverend Helen Hancock, said: “It was very important and it was finishing off something that needed to be completed.

“It was very poignant. New Malden has a very strong community spirit and I think the tragedy brought the community together and I wonder whether some of that has continued to today.”

Rev Kuhrt said he hoped the setting of the plaque and tree, which will blossom later in the year, would serve as a lasting reminder to all those who lost their lives, not just the service men and women.

He also paid tribute to John Pendlebury, who was the curate at Christ Church in March 1941, and died after pushing his wife and children to safety but being too late to save himself.

For more information visit maldenblitz.co.uk.

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