Forgotten heroes

THOUSANDS of servicemen gave the balance of their minds for their country in World War I, many dying in asylums, unrecognised as heroes and casualties of war. Across the country there are more than 100 asylum cemeteries where these men are buried and have lain forgotten.

One of these asylums was Cane Hill in Coulsdon, Croydon, which is now closed, with a housing estate built on the site of its cemetery.

Last October, children and teachers from ten schools in and around New Addington took part in a moving ‘Final Roll Call’ service to remember the 26 soldiers and one airman from Cane Hill Asylum Cemetery.

I believe this was the first time in 100 years a remembrance service had been held for servicemen who died in mental asylums.

As each school’s name was called, the teachers and pupils came to the altar to receive a small wooden poppy cross and a candle with a floral tribute, with the name and regiment of a soldier written on it.

Royal Russell School, for instance, is guardian of the spirit of Sgt Alfred Charles Cartwright, of the Grenadier Guards, and Addington High School is guardian of the spirit of Private Leonard Dodson, of the Queen’s Royal West Surrey Regiment.

We are trying to have what these men achieved recognised, so when we wear our poppies this year they can all be honoured. I hope their families can be traced, too, so they know their relative has not been forgotten.

Local people are also working with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, so the men’s names can appear on a new memorial dedicated to them to be erected in Mitcham Road Cemetery, Croydon, by the Commission.

MICHAEL WILLIAM LYONS,

Croydon, Surrey.