A NEW memorial rose garden has been opened at Christchurch Priory.

The mayor of Christchurch, councillor John Lofts, officially opened the memorial at Church Hatch Gardens on St George’s Day.

Roses that have been planted in the memorial garden have been given names associated with commemorations of the war, which include, Commonwealth Glory, Super Trouper and Mountbatten.

The mayor was joined by members of the Royal British Legion, representatives of armed forces associations, councillors and officers from Christchurch Council and pupils from The Priory School, in unveiling a plaque.

It reads: “In ever grateful remembrance of those who fell in the fight for freedom and peace in the Great War 1914-1918.”