New Garden of Remembrance opens in Bedlington

13 Feb 2025

The new Garden of Remembrance at Bedlington’s West Lea Cemetery has been officially opened. 

The scheme is the latest to be completed as part of a range of projects totalling more than £370,000 across the county to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II - and follows suggestions from around 1,000 residents. 

The Garden of Remembrance had fallen into disrepair but following restoration now features a new entrance, alongside resurfacing, new seating and a bust of the late Queen. 

Funded by County Council and Bedlington West councillor Malcolm Robinson and contributions from the Friends of West Lea Cemetery Group, the garden was opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Dr Caroline Pryer. 

The opening ceremony was also attended by council leader Glen Sanderson and the County Council’s business chair Councillor John Beynon. 

 Councillor Sanderson said: “This is a beautiful restoration of a part of the cemetery which had unfortunately seen better days but is now looking magnificent. 

“Across the county we’ve seen a range of different memorial schemes created and this one is very special and I’m sure will be very well loved by all those who visit.” 

Councillor Robinson said: “The work has really transformed the Garden of Remembrance. When the sun sets, the new archway turns golden – it’s a bit of magic, it’s fantastic when you see it.  

“It shows that we can make things exceptional if we’re given the opportunity and is a great example of organisations working together for the benefit of the wider community.” 

Cutting the ribbon to open the new garden, Dr Pryer added: “The memorial you have created is something that is going to stay with Bedlington for many, many years to come and for generations to come.”