Tree planting in memory of soldier killed in action
A MOVING ceremony took place at Robertsbridge Community College today as a tree was planted in rememberance of a popular former student who died in Iraq.
Corporal John Rigby, of the 4th Battalion, The Rifles, was fatally injured by a roadside bomb and died on his 24th birthday with his twin brother Will by his side.
Sue Prochak, chair of governors at Robertsbridge, introduced the ceremony, with the current head boy and head girl presenting readings chosen by the family.
Wendy Watkins, who used to be John's form tutor, paid tribute to the solider on behalf of the school as John's father Doug Rigby, mother Liz and sister Jill looked on.
Mr Rigby planted the flowering cherry tree, specially chosen by the family, and paid an emotional tribute to his son in front of around 25 friends and Robertsbridge staff.
Mr Rigby told the crowd how proud he was of his son, and spoke about how well John had done at Robertsbridge Community College and everything the school had done for him.
The ceremony was organised by Anne Pope, head of RE and a school governor, who used to teach John.
She said: "I think it's important because we wanted to remember John.
"He had been a very popular member of the school amongst staff and pupils and we are proud of what he achieved and thought it was important to remember that.
"In spite of the weather, the ceremony went well and it was a very positive and moving experience."
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Weather for Bexhill-on-Sea
Monday 28 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 22 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 11 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
