Making a positive memory out of a tragedy

Published: 7 October, 2010

• WE would like to pay tribute to Camden Parks Department for the way they have supported us with the bench dedication for the family members killed in the Blitz in Harrington Square in 1940. 

In particular, we would like to thank Gary Stronge for his patient support over the months spent planning the bench dedication. We would also like to thank Dave Humphries, for all the help and attention he gave us and for the many photos he took of the family and the public on the day. 

The Parks Department has provided us with a wonderful collection of old photographs and maps of Harrington Square, as well as a photocopy of a watercolour of the Square painted in 1938 by Grace Golden. These treasures have meant that my mother, Lily, has been able to retrace her steps, locate where a childhood friend lived, and retrieve many positive memories out of the tragedy that befell her. 

It’s hard to explain, but this was much more than just a bench with a plaque – it has been a deeply moving event in our lives. Staff in the Parks department have shown they understood this and entered into the spirit of the event. 

So a heartfelt thank you to Camden Parks Department! 
Frankie Mitchell 
(on behalf of Lily Mitchell)
Brookfield Park, NW5