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Legacy Hotel hosts Prisoner of War memorial guests

The Legacy Falcon Hotel in Stratford played host to 80 veterans this weekend, after they commemorated the 65^th anniversary of VJ Day in a poignant memorial service.

Members of The Java Far East Prisoners of War Club 1942 attended a remembrance service organised by the Royal British Legion in the nearby Memorial Gardens. The PoWs were then treated to a concert from Welsh-based The Parlour Consort, before tucking into dinner at the Legacy Falcon.

Jason Mayglothling, general manager of the Legacy Falcon Hotel, said the visit had sparked national and international interest:

 “Members of the club travelled from across the UK to renew their friendships which started in the camps where they were held captive for three-and-a-half years. A film crew travelled from Holland to interview the veterans about their experiences. It’s important to have a permanent record of their memories for future generations.”

Former Stratford Mayors Cllrs Donna Barker and Jenny Fradgley attended the dinner along with Cllr Wall and Royal British Legion chairman Peter Summerton.

Lesley Clark, chairman of The Java FEPOW Club 1942, said the 65^th anniversary marked the date their incarceration ended in the Far East.

“We are the last Java Club in existence since our veterans and their widows are now in their late 80s and 90s and sadly there are not many left. We enjoy coming to Stratford each year because it is great to come together for the camaraderie and it is also important that we offer our members welfare support.”

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