‘I find this decision very distasteful. The flower beds are a disgrace’

done in previous years.

“We are not playing politics, we are dealing with the reality of shrinking budgets.

“As always if they (FoMP) reflect and decide to do something in the park then I am prepared to help fund that through by county council member’s grant as I have done in previous years.”

Coun Molineux confirmed that Church Lane – the road leading to the cenotaph in Memorial Park – will ‘finally be resurfaced’ after a four-year campaign – albeit not until after the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

Coun Molineux said the works will help ensure ‘safe passage for veterans and the town’s residents to pay tribute to soldiers that gave their life for us’.

He said: “It’s fantastic news that Church Lane is to finally be resurfaced.

“This year will see lots of parades around the borough remembering the fallen soldiers that gave their life during the world wars to protect our freedoms.

“Church Lane is an important road which is used to parade to the cenotaph each year and it’s only right that the people that fought or supported the war effort are able to parade safely without fear of tripping and falling.”

Church Lane is to be resurfaced between Friday, July 1 and Monday, July 25.

The road with be temporarily closed to allow the resurfacing works to take place.

Diversions are being put in place on Granville Road, Allsprings Drive and Hindlefold Lane.