IT is sad news that forces sweetheart Vera Lynn has died aged 103. She was a true national treasure and brought enormous comfort to servicemen and civilians during the dark days of World War Two and since. Her hugely popular songs, including We’ll Meet Again and White Cliffs of Dover, have remained firm favourites, that are evocative of an era.

For all Echo readers who are keen gardeners it may be of interest for you to know there is a splendid gladioli named after Vera Lynn which has such a splendid array of colour.

Vera Lynn’s life reflected warmth, dignity and beauty. How appropriate that a magnificent colour of a gladioli is named after her. The dedicated bloom will be a reminder in years to come of the tremendous vibrant person she was and how her voice comforted so many in times of despair and sorrow.

Vera Lynn. Fondly remembered but never forgotten and like a radiant flower that blooms in the garden.

CHRISTOPHER COLLEDGE

Chairman of Bournemouth in Bloom

Durley Gardens, Bournemouth