Watford Borough Council is proud to announce the renovation of the World War Two Sandringham Road Memorial at North Watford Cemetery...
The memorial commemorates the 40 innocent lives lost during a devastating German bomb attack in World War Two, with twelve of those who tragically lost their lives buried within North Watford Cemetery.
On the 79th anniversary of the tragic event, the renovation pays tribute to the victims and honours their memory. The bombing tragically claimed the lives of 40 people in Sandringham Road on Sunday 30 July 1944, while also injuring 64 individuals and causing extensive damage to the local community.
The bomb's impact also wiped out 50 homes and left 500 others significantly damaged. In the aftermath of the war, the resilient spirit of local residents showed as they united to rebuild Sandringham Road.
To honour the victims and the community spirit that emerged in the wake of destruction, a communal funeral was organised for the fallen victims. In August 1950, a memorial was erected on Sandringham Road, serving as a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by those who perished.
Now, Watford Borough Council is committed to preserving the memory of this historical event through the renovation of the Sandringham Road Memorial, which was completed by the skilled team at Kenward & Son Ltd.
The renovation has also been led by the local Greenhill family, organisers of a local memorial group who support its maintenance. Their involvement stems from the proximity of their own family's resting place and wanting to honour those who lost their lives. Motivated by their connection, the family engaged with the council to explore avenues for enhancing the memorial.
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “The impact that the Second World War had on our town was enormous. 40 people died in the bombing of Sandringham Road, the biggest loss of life in any event during the Second World War in Hertfordshire.
"The renovation of the memorial is an important way to continue to remember those who lost their lives that day, as well as the terrific community spirit of the town when residents came together to rebuild Sandringham Road.”
