Remember Harry . . . help choose a memorial to the Last Fighting Tommy

The Wells Journal and BBC Somerset are joining forces to help Wells choose a permanent memorial to the Last Fighting Tommy.

For most of the last decade the part that Harry Patch played in one of the most horrific episodes of British history – he was a survivor of the Third Battle of Ypres, better known as Passchendaele – ensured he was never out of the limelight for long.

The former Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantryman did not seek publicity but wanted to use it to make sure his fallen comrades and his message of the futility of war were never forgotten.

Now, a year on from his death, the lack of any permanent memorial in his home city of Wells has prompted a campaign with the backing of Mr Patch's family.

His grandson Roger Patch told the Journal: "If the people of Wells want to remember him, particularly in a way that can do some good for others, we will support that."

Now the question is how should Harry be remembered?

From today readers of the Wells Journal and listeners to Matt Faulkner's BBC Somerset Breakfast show can make their own feelings known on how they would like to perpetuate Harry's message of the futility of war.

Once the ideas have come in, readers and listeners will be able to vote on the best way to remember Mr Patch's message.

"It is right that the city which took Harry to its heart unites as one to make sure the man and his legacy are never forgotten," said Wells Journal editor Philip Welch.

"We ask our readers and the listeners of BBC Somerset to play their part in devising an appropriate tribute to an extraordinary man who believed passionately in peace after experiencing the horrors of war."

Many ideas were put forward on Monday when Matt Faulkner, breakfast presenter on BBC Somerset, held a special debate on the issue.

He said: "It would be wonderful if his family, friends and the people of Somerset could decide upon a fitting tribute. It's important people don't forget Harry, what he did and what he believed. Let's remember him in a way he would have approved of."

Wells City Council confirmed that as yet no ideas for a lasting memorial to Harry Patch had been put forward but they would be happy to consider any ideas.

Write to Harry Patch Memorial, Wells Journal, Southover, Wells BA5 1UH or e-mail editor@midsomnews.co.uk with suggestions.