BID react to accusations after 'Tommy' removed in Bexleyheath

The silhouette known as ‘Tommy’ was installed in Bexleyheath Town Centre.

Residents aimed their frustration at Bexley Council after Tommy was removed ahead of Remembrance Sunday, for the Christmas Light Switch On event.

On Facebook Lesley Yaxley said she was "shocked and appalled that the memorial to fallen soldiers was removed before Remembrance Sunday and a Christmas tree erected in its place".

But the traders' group - the Business Improvement District (BID) state that the council was not involved. They said Tommy was a ‘last minute addition’ to the town centre in support of the Royal British Legion (RBL) but needed to be removed before the switch-on.

Bexleyheath Town Centre's new Christmas tree

A spokesman for the BID said: “Having not known that Tommy would be joining us until early October, sadly we had no choice but to move him from his new standing position for the switch on event on Saturday.

“All of which was discussed with the RBL who were thankful of his inclusion and planned future with us.”

BID, who represent independent brands and businesses, state that the plans for the Christmas switch on could not be moved on such short notice.

They have also claimed that the RBL were also aware that Tommy would be installed and removed before the Sunday service.

“Sadly, this did mean that he wasn’t present on the Sunday remembrance service which we also recognise has huge importance, frustratingly this year’s plans for Christmas had been made months before Tommy’s eventual inclusion in this year’s remembrance.” They added.

The silhouette was previously installed in the town centre in late October.

An apology was issued within the statement to anyone who felt Tommy’s disappearance was ‘disrespectful’ and stated that it was not their ‘intention’ to upset anyone.

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They also can confirm that this decision was not made by Bexley Council, despite comments ‘aiming frustration’ at them.

BID stated that the Tommy statue will feature on Remembrance Sunday next year and ‘for many years to come’.