Express & Star

Dudley MP calls for statue dedicated to 'Women of War' to be approved in time for Remembrance Sunday

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Sonia Kumar, MP for Dudley, has written to the chief executive of Dudley Council urging permission to be granted for the silhouette monument n Sedgley ahead of this year’s Remembrance commemorations. a week on Sunday. 

The silhouette, which is being donated by Sedgley Townswomen’s Guild, seeks to address the lack of local memorials recognising the contribution of women in wartime, including medics, codebreakers, factory workers and volunteers. 

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Miss Kumar wrote in her letter to Balvinder Heran: “As Remembrance Day draws near and our community prepares to pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our country, I am writing to ask that Dudley Council grant permission for the permanent installation of a ‘Women of War’ silhouette in Sedgley,.

“Despite the many memorials and tributes across the Dudley borough, women’s contributions in times of conflict have often gone unrecognised. Installing this silhouette would not only acknowledge the historical service of local women but also serve as an enduring symbol of inclusivity and recognition.”

She said the proposed installation would form part of Sedgley’s growing network of local heritage and remembrance landmarks, enriching community spaces while offering residents, veterans and families a place to reflect on the shared history of service and sacrifice.

Karen Moore, of Sedgley Townswomen’s Guild  added: "Sedgley Townswomen’s Guild is proud to donate the ‘Women of War’ silhouette to our community. 

"Placing this tribute in Sedgley will ensure that every Remembrance our daughters and granddaughters see themselves in our shared history. 

"We hope the Council will approve the installation so it can stand in place for this November.”

Miss Kumar added: “For generations, women have served their country with courage, on the front lines of medicine, in factories, in intelligence, and through countless acts of support at home.

"It’s time their contribution was properly recognised in our borough. A ‘Women of War’ monument in Sedgley would stand as a lasting tribute to those women’s service and a symbol of gratitude for generations to come.”

She said, if approved, the installation could be completed in time for Remembrance Sunday on November 9, marking an important addition to the borough’s heritage and ensuring a more complete commemoration for all who served.