Joe’s memorial garden tells a poignant story
Outdoor space to take centre stage at homes exhibition
A war hero is being honoured posthumously with a memorial garden at the Ideal Home Show.
Corporal Joe Parker worked on the famous Spitfire fighter, which will hang from the rafters of the SEC, in Glasgow.
The Royal Air Force man was the last surviving combative from the Battle of Britain when he passed away earlier this year, aged 96.
He spent the last decade of his life at veterans’ home Erskine, which has partnered with the show to pay tribute to the airman.
His son Joe, who works in aerospace at BAE Systems, says his father’s time at the centre improved his twilight years.
He explained: “My father proudly served in 602 Squadron, maintaining a variety of Spitfire aircraft.
“He often said that they were some of the best years of his life, giving purpose and forming new friendships.
“In his later years, he repeated similar words. But this time it was his home in Erskine, where his long life was extended and expanded, which gave him purpose with his family and friends.
“It was a joy to see dad enjoying life again and supporting Erskine in their many fundraising campaigns.
“It seemed as though Erskine was meant for Joe and he for it.”
Joe opened the Ideal Home Show back in 2013, the first year event organisers joined forces with Erskine.
His garden tells the story of a pilot’s flight home during the war, represented by the green grass of home, the sandy beaches and blue sea.
A field of poppies will also be planted and a Spitfire will be suspended above the display.
Kirsten Graham, corporate and events fundraising manager at Erskine, said: “Our ideas are inspired by our veterans, so the design for our garden comes from their lives and memories. “It’s our chance to tell their story. “Each of our four homes have outdoor spaces where residents and their families can do their own gardening.
“We hope to replicate a similar environment over the weekend, using strong aloe vera and lavender, similar to those in sensory gardens.”
Joe served in the RAF for six years and was stationed at Abbotsinch.
He worked as an aircraft technician, working on engines, including the Rolls-Royce Merlin, which powered the Spitfire and Hurricane.
He also worked on the Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer aircraft in Prestwick after the war. A model of the plane will also go on display at the garden.
Volunteers from SP Energy Networks will help by planting, laying turf, moving pallets and operating construction equipment.
Ricky Foster, SP Energy Networks team leader, said: “It’s a real privilege for us to be involved.
“It shouldn’t be underestimated how important our support is to the construction of the Erskine stand and to the charity.
“Being involved gives everyone a chance to hear some of the incredible stories the veterans have to tell about their lives.
“Hearing it first-hand really brings to life what they have done.”
The Ideal Home Show runs for four days, starting from tomorrow at the SEC, Glasgow.