A TRIBUTE to Ipswich Second World War heroes has been given a £1,000 boost.Ipswich and Norwich Co-operative made the donation in support of an extension to the town's war memorial in Christchurch Park.

A TRIBUTE to Ipswich Second World War heroes has been given a £1,000 boost.

Ipswich and Norwich Co-operative made the donation in support of an extension to the town's war memorial in Christchurch Park.

So far £65,000 has been raised but the Royal British Legion (RBL) Ipswich branch, who are spearheading the campaign, need another £60,000.

Miriam Harrup, spokeswoman for the Co-op, said: "We are very pleased to support the Second World War appeal particularly as we know there were former Ipswich Co-operative employees who died during the conflict.

"We know that The British Legion have quite a way to go to reach their target and hope other local businesses get behind them."

The money was raised by the Co-op's community dividend fund by members quoting 660, which supports hundreds of local charities.

Peter Thompson, secretary of the RBL Ipswich branch, said thanked the Co-op for their generosity.

He said: "We are looking for the memorial to be completed as soon as possible while people who fought in the Second World War are around the see it."

The memorial would include the names of Ipswich war heroes who died in any subsequent battles since the 1939 – 45 conflict.

The next fundraising event is An Evening with the Khaki Chums on Tuesday May 6 at The Manor Ballroom, Ipswich, at 7.30 pm.

It will include a grand draw and music and songs from Terry Le-Travers. Tickets £5 telephone 01473 – 747983.

Any cheques should be made out to Ipswich World War Two Memorial Fund c/o British Legion Ipswich branch 12 St Margaret's Green Ipswich IP4 2BS or taken to Ipswich Borough Council premises.