Restoring Hexham’s war memorial boards
Memorial boards commemorating the servicemen of Hexham who died during the Second World War have been carefully restored.
The boards, located in Hexham General Hospital, part of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, have been expertly repaired by local specialists Langley Furniture Works.
Healthcare in Hexham has a proud history, beginning in 1921 with the opening of Hexham War Memorial Hospital, which was funded by public subscriptions after the Great War. During the Second World War, the hospital treated wounded soldiers before becoming part of the NHS in 1948. The current Hexham General Hospital building, opened in 2004, combines this legacy with state-of-the-art medical facilities.
The memorial boards were originally displayed in the chapel of the new hospital, but over time, signs of wear and damage became apparent. The wood glue had deteriorated, leading to splits in weaker areas. Thanks to this restoration, the boards have been given a fresh lease of life.
Andrew Patterson, one of the chaplains at Hexham, said: “It’s so important that this work has been done and that these people are remembered. It serves as a reminder for the people of Hexham, the improvements that have been made to people’s lives through this hospital; a difference for good.”
Kim Minnis, Hexham’s matron, added: “I remember the old war memorial hospital during my training, and seeing the board there. There are so many strong local family names – families who still have members working here at Hexham General, so it will mean a lot to many people. Hexham is all about community.”
The restoration was funded through Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity after staff bid for funding. Donations to the charity mean that projects like this can be completed, going the extra mile for Northumbria’s patients, staff, and local communities.
Head of Bright Charity, Rob Graham, said: “We’re very pleased to support this project as we know it means a lot to our staff, patients and local community. This is just one of the ways in which Bright is able to contribute to our hospitals and the surrounding community.”
