Gurkhas Rally to build memorial to fallen heroes

A national community wide campaign to raise funds by public subscription to build a lasting memorial to fallen Gurkha heroes will launched in Folkestone on Saturday 11th April 2009.

The campaign has been inspired by Lib Dem Folkestone Town Councillor Dhan Gurung. Dhan is believed to be the first ever retired Gurkha elected to a public office in the UK.

Cllr Gurung said:

"Gurkhas have fought for Britain for 200 years. Still they fight today in Afghanistan. Over the generations, some 45,000 Gurkhas have laid down their lives for Britain. They are still doing it today. Within the last few months alone, we have lost 2 brave Gurkhas. I am calling on the whole country and on everyone from across the world who holds the Gurkhas in high regard to help support this memorial. We are asking individuals, groups and communities to support us by donating to our memorial fund."

The memorial is likely to be a statue of a modern day Gurkha in full battle dress. It will be placed in a prominent position high above the cliffs in Folkestone. It will be designed and made by a local sculpture. Various designs are being considered.

The launch event is a major public rally to be held at the Hawkinge Community Centre, Heron Forstal Avenue, Hawkinge, Folkestone Kent CT18 7BP on Saturday 11th April at 1.30pm. At the rally, Cllr Gurung and others will explain the purpose of the memorial. An outline design will be available for members of the public to inspect and comment on together with details of possible sites. Present at the event will be Second World War VC winners Mr Tul Bahadur Pun and Mr Lechiman Gurung.

Members of the public can make donations by cheque to The Gurkha Memorial Fund c/o The Puffins, Peene, Folkestone, Kent CT18 8BG or by going into any bank and paying into sort code 52-41-42 account 47201290.