Crest Nicholson unveils new memorial to Battle of Britain hero
16th July 2024
Last weekend, local housebuilder Crest Nicholson proudly hosted a commemorative service at its Walton Court Gardens development following completion of the replacement memorial remembering Flight Sergeant Charles Sydney whose Spitfire was shot down over the site during the Battle of Britain.
Among the guests at the event on Saturday 6 July were the Mayor of Elmbridge, members of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets and family and friends of Charles Sydney. The public memorial forms part of the unique landscaping at Walton Court Gardens, featuring sculptures that reflect the site’s eclectic history, including its time as the headquarters for Birdseye when penguins roamed in the courtyard.
Mark Foyle, Managing Director of Crest Nicholson South said:
Crest Nicholson is committed to placemaking and leaving a positive legacy, which is why we wanted Walton Court Gardens to celebrate the site’s history. We are delighted that we have been able to work with Friends of Charles Sydney and Elmbridge Borough Council to install a replacement memorial to remember Charles Sydney and all those who lost their lives during the Battle of Britain.
Christine Elmer, on behalf of The Friends of Flt. Sgt. Charles Sydney RAF, said:
“We were pleased to see so many in attendance from the local community. This meant a lot to the family of Flight Sergeant Charles Sydney. We thank Crest Nicholson and Elmbridge Borough Council for their support in working to replace the memorial which will be available for the community to enjoy and pay their respects.”
Mayor of Elmbridge, Cllr Neil Houston said:
“I am proud that Walton-on-Thames and Elmbridge now have a memorial to the Flight Sergeant Charles Sydney, whose Spitfire was shot down on 27 September 1940 over Station Avenue during the Battle of Britain. With the new development, a memorial once again stands to mark the bravery and sacrifice of Flight Sergeant Sydney and all our armed forces.”
All homes in the current phase at Walton Court Gardens have been sold but Crest Nicholson will soon be releasing six new generously sized family homes, offering four bedrooms over three floors. To be the first to find out more get in touch with the team on 01932 300391 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/waltoncourtgardens