A tree has been planted at Ipswich Old Cemetery in memory of First World War Victoria Cross winner, Private Samuel Harvey.
The mayor of Ipswich Hamil Clarke planted the specimen in a ceremony which brought to a close months of fundraising for the soldier, who was awarded the accolade for his bravery during the Battle of Loos, when he suffered a gunshot wound to the head.
After the conflict ended, Pte Harvey’s life descended into a grim world of drink and rough sleeping and when he died in Stowmarket in 1960, he was given just a pauper’s funeral.
It was not until 2000 that a headstone was put in place at his grave site.
Staff and residents at Park View Care Home in Ipswich launched a campaign to raise funds for a fitting memorial – which eventually made about £800.
A tree in memory of Pte Harvey is also due to be planted at Sprites Primary School, which raised about £600 through a sponsored walk.
More to follow later today and in tomorrow’s Ipswich Star.
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