THOUSANDS of people are walking down a high street, unaware they are destroying a memorial dedicated to those who died in the Second World War.
The bronze plaque, commemorating the 51 people who died in a VI bomb attack on Lewisham’s Market Place in 1944, lies almost unnoticed on the pavement outside the high street’s Marks and Spencer store.
Community group leader Jennie Randall went looking for the plaque - donated by the shop around 60 years ago - after planning to have one put up to commemorate the war dead in Bickley.
She said: “I didn’t expect it for a moment to be on the pavement. It took me a quite a few minutes to decipher what it said.
“It’s really worn away. The passage of people’s feet has almost obliterated the wording.
“Lots of people have commented that it’s a real shame that this plaque is just basically getting ignored and trampled upon.
“It just seems so sad.”
She has now contacted her MP Bob Neil to ask for his support.
The Doodlebug bomb exploded beside the clock tower early on July 28 1944 during market trading, wiping out shops along the street.
Along with the 51 who tragically died, a further 216 were injured.
Store manager Brendan Fee said that he would support moving the plaque to a wall but claimed the ultimate responsibility lies with Lewisham Council.
Ms Randall is contacting the council to raise her concerns.
Can you remember the explosion? Call the newsroom on 01689 885703.
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