by Adam Williams
awilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk

Sturry paused to remember its past on Friday with a day of events commemorating the impact of German air raids in 1941.

Lord Lieutenant of Kent Viscount De L’Isle and Lord Mayor of Canterbury Cllr Ian Thomas were among the specially invited guests at the 70th anniversary event.

It included a service of wartime songs at Junior King’s School’s Milner Barn and a wreath laying at St Nicholas Church.

Sturry High Street was also transformed into a scene from 1941 with members of Second World War re-enactment group Forward to Victory dressed in period costume alongside pupils from both Sturry Primary School and Junior King’s School.

Shops and businesses were also given a wartime facelift.

Liliana Jokic, clerk of Sturry Parish Council, said the day was a fitting tribute.

She told this paper: “It was hugely important for the village to remember the huge impact the blitz had on the village’s history. A total of 15 people lost their lives in the air raids, including a whole family of four.
“We had some really positive feedback from people throughout the day and people really enjoyed it. It was great to involve as many people as possible from across the community, including those who lived through the blitz and school children, who were given an invaluable history lesson.”

See this week's paper for full report and picture special.