Whitehill Town Council has completed significant upgrades to the town’s war memorial area, including a new Canadian War Memorial plaque, ensuring the site continues to honour local and international sacrifice.

The project was carried out in partnership with the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company (WBRC), McCarthy Stone and Jigsaw Construction.

Enhancements include a three-tier planter beside the memorial displaying seasonal flowers, an updated plaque for the Canadian War Memorial in its new location, and new cross troughs for the annual Remembrance commemoration.

Additional improvements include refreshed landscaping to create a peaceful and reflective environment, a new bench for visitors, and extra railings around the Canadian memorial, making the space more accessible for the whole community.

The Canadian War Memorial was removed from its former site by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and their agents, WBRC.

It could not be returned as the land has since been sold by the MoD to developer McCarthy Stone. WBRC previously arranged for stakeholders to meet to discuss how to protect the heritage, stating it was a MoD/WBRC priority.

Town councillors acted quickly to safeguard the Canadian War Memorial by inviting the MoD and WBRC to place it adjacent to the main war memorial near Ennerdale Road and the One Stop convenience store, and to transfer ownership to the Town Council.

The relocation was completed in time for Armistice Day in 2024.

The main war memorial features the names of 69 servicemen on the Roll of Honour and remains the focal point for annual Remembrance events, drawing residents together each year in shared reflection and respect.

Town Mayor Cllr Catherine Clark said: "We are very proud that the Canadian War Memorial is now located next to the existing war memorial and these further improvements will further encourage people to visit and pay their respects to the fallen.”