A war hero’s death in Afghanistan has been given a lasting memorial at a Huddersfield primary school.

Pte Tom Wroe, 18, died along with a colleague, Sgt Gareth Thursby, when they went to help a man dressed as an Afghan policeman.

Both members of the 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment (Duke of Wellington’s), were killed instantly.

But thanks to the generosity of Tom’s family, Meltham Moor Primary School, which he attended, has transformed a derelict area into a beautiful Peace Garden.

Following a fundraising event organised by Tom’s parents, Michael and Claire, a donation was made to the school.

They and Tom’s sister Demi set up the fund as a lasting legacy and almost £3,900 was raised following a memorial charity dinner organised by Holmfirth and Meltham Lions.

Private Thomas Wroe
Private Thomas Wroe

The proceeds have been put towards projects at the school.

Caretaker Melvin Gledhill, who also leads gardening clubs with the children, has worked hard to design and develop the space.

There are grassed areas, pathways, benches and an array of colourful plants.

Mike Whitfield, head teacher at the school, said: “Melvin has worked tirelessly over the last few weeks, with the help of his gardeners and parent Natalie Wheeldon, to complete the area before the end of term and done a fantastic job which we are proud of.

“It is a wonderful space which we will be able to use with individual children and groups of children for many purposes but essentially as a quiet, peaceful space when needed.

“It will also will help us remember some of our ex-pupils, such as Tom, who were taken from us too soon.”

Peace Garden at Meltham Moor Primary School.

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