NMA Memorial Anchor Maintenance Plan

21 May 2015 Anchor Memorial dedication in the presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester

The HMS Ardent Committee has decided to secure the long-term maintenance of our Memorial Anchor at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) by purchasing a permanent maintenance contract.

Many of you will know that for many years David “Brum” Serrell, Carol, and occasionally Mark Higgitt have travelled to the National Memorial Arboretum to clean and maintain our Memorial Anchor. Thanks to their dedication, it has always been presented to the highest standard. Unfortunately, Brum is no longer able to continue this work. On behalf of the Association, we would like to thank Brum, Carol and Mark for everything they have done over the years. Their commitment has been outstanding.

Their decision has also highlighted something important. As a committee, we have a responsibility to ensure that our NMA memorial continues to be cared for long after individual volunteers are no longer able to do so. After discussions with the National Memorial Arboretum, we have decided to purchase a long-term maintenance contract for the Memorial Anchor. This contract guarantees regular cleaning, grounds maintenance and repainting, ensuring that the Anchor continues to be maintained to the standard it deserves for many years to come.

Most of the funding will come from our Business Premium Account, with a small transfer from our Community Account. After payment, sufficient funds will remain to continue supporting our annual memorial services, website and other Association activities.

We appreciate this is a significant investment, but your committee believes it is the right decision. The Memorial Anchor is our lasting tribute to HMS Ardent, her Ship’s Company and the 22 shipmates we lost. Securing its future care is exactly what those funds were saved for.