WATCH: Quinton memorial to all lost in conflicts unveiled

While specific memorials exist for those who died in the First and Second World War, the monument in Quinton Recreation Ground is the first to cover all conflicts and is the most accessible to the public.

It was put in place in May to coincide with the 70th anniversary of VE Day having been funded by the Birmingham City Council Community Chest.

Bernard Taylor, chairman of the Quinton Local History Society, explained how the desire to have a general memorial came about.

He said: "During the celebrations last year, commemorating the centenary of the First World War, I was asked by the acting head of the Church School if there was such a memorial for Quinton where the children could lay down a poppy wreath.

"Sadly, I replied there was not, and then I thought it was about time that the people of Quinton had their own war memorial, a generic one to all those who had given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

"I approached the councillors and asked if the society could have a grant from the ward community chest. The answer was a resounding 'yes.'"

The unveiling ceremony this week included prayers led by the rector at Christ Church, Rev Jenny Arnold, hymns, the playing of the Last Post, a minute silence and the laying of a wreath. Later, children from Quinton Church Primary School placed crosses marked with their initials on the memorial.

Standard-bearers represented the Quinton British Legion, Wolverhampton City British Legion, the Federation of Birmingham Ex-Service Association, the Birmingham Korean Veterans' Fellowship, the Royal National Lifeboat Association and the 1944 Standard commemorating D-Day.

Mr Taylor, added: "The importance of this is the children asked me last year where could they lay a wreath. It was the fact I had to say no.

"It is important the children in the future realise that people gave the ultimate sacrifice so they can live in relative peace and harmony and freedom."