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Swindon, England United Kingdom |
Stratton Wood | Birchgrove Memorial Grove |
since 1 October 1996 without names |
In 1996 The Birchgrove Group sponsored the planting of 1200 trees at the Woodland Trust's woodland creation site at Stratton St. Margaret, near Swindon, Wiltshire. This grove of trees will create a living and lasting tribute to the lives of people with haemophilia who were infected with HIV via contaminated clotting factors. lt was intended by Birchgrove that this woodland should become a peaceful place for people to visit and remember those who had their lives so profoundly affected by HIV. This grove of trees is not only a memorial to those who have sadly died, but also shows the resilience and strength of those who are still affected and living with HIV/AIDS.
The Stone
A locally sourced stone marks the site of the wood. It was recovered from an underground glacial riverbed and is inscribed with the words:
"Birchgrove - This grove celebrates the lives of the 1200 people with Haemophilia infected with HIV"
The stone and its installation were funded by individual sponsors including Birchgrove reader Stuart, who completed a sponsored cycle ride from Lands End to John O'Groats. Stuart said after his epic journey, "I'm proud to have done the ride to raise money for the Birchgrove Woodland - and I'd do it all again if I had to."
There is a hardcore path that skirts the perimeter of the Birchgrove plot which is suitable for wheelchairs. However the ground around the stone and throughout the grove is rough grassland.
Photos © The Birchgrove Group
24 May 2004
The Birchgrove Group, Cardiff
