It could not have been a better afternoon weather-wise to celebrate the civic life of a much-loved former Labour leader of Hastings Borough Council. Saturday 5th May saw the Peace Garden in Alexandra Park fill with friends, family
and political comrades, all come to pay their respects to a man who gave so much to our town and has left a lasting legacy. This event was the official unveiling of a commemorative plaque to mark three red birch trees that have been planted in honour of the late Jeremy Birch.

Hastings Mayor Judy Rogers led the proceedings with a personal tribute and acknowledgement of how Cllr Birch had inspired her into local politics. Current HBC leader, Peter Chowney, reminded those gathered of how passionate and creative Jeremy had been during his leadership, introducing many innovative improvements to Hastings & St Leonards, including the highly successful Grotbusters scheme.

Louise Carlyle, Jeremy’s partner of 42 years, then read a moving poem that had been written by members of Hastings Youth Council after the council leader sadly and unexpectedly passed away three years ago. There were also poems of tribute read out by Jeremy’s son Peter, and by a HIP poet.

To bring this joyous celebration to a close, local politicians, community leaders, friends and admirers all joined in a stirring rendition of the Labour Party anthem, The Red Flag. As everyone strolled towards the park café for refreshments, the hot May Day weekend sun shone through the leaves of three beautiful new trees. In Hastings, ‘Jeremy’s Face Smiles over the Sea’.

 

We hope you have enjoyed reading this article from Hastings Independent. The future of this volunteer led, non-profit publication would be far more secure with the aid of a small donation. It only takes a minute and we would be very grateful.

https://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/JeremyBirchSQ.jpghttps://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/JeremyBirchSQ-150x150.jpgPete DonohueNewsPoetryJeremy BirchIt could not have been a better afternoon weather-wise to celebrate the civic life of a much-loved former Labour leader of Hastings Borough Council. Saturday 5th May saw the Peace Garden in Alexandra Park fill with friends, family and political comrades, all come to pay their respects to a man...The Hastings & St Leonards non-profit community newspaper