We, the Exmouth 531st Tribute Fund, would like to thank the people who very kindly got behind us in our efforts to raise funding for a memorial to the Devonshire Regiment, which will be unveiled by the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Mr Eric Dancer CBE JP, on F

We, the Exmouth 531st Tribute Fund, would like to thank the people who very kindly got behind us in our efforts to raise funding for a memorial to the Devonshire Regiment, which will be unveiled by the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Mr Eric Dancer CBE JP, on Friday, June 5, as part of our triple weekend.The first �1,000 came from an anonymous benefactor way back in June 2008, for which we were extremely grateful. This was followed by a further �1000 from Devon County Council, via Councillor Mrs Eileen Wragg, in August. There then followed �300 from Palmers Funeral Services, �100 from the Sun Lodge No 106, who very kindly laid on a very enjoyable social evening for all recipients from the Masonic Charities Association and, finally, a further �100 which was also donated anonymously.I know I speak also for local ex-Devons' Mr Trevor Pitman, who came up with the idea of a memorial, when I say we were overwhelmed by the quick response locally for what will be a fitting tribute to our county regiment, alas no more.The actual dedication of the memorial will take place on Sunday, June 7, as part of the annual open air D-Day service of remembrance. This will be a very moving military service with the Salamanca band leading the ceremonial throughout and to which all ex-service personnel are cordially invited, as are the public for what is the 65th anniversary of the Normandy Landings.The whole three day event is centred around the centenary of the 'Gifting of Phear Park to the people of Exmouth' and is open to everyone who wishes to play a part in this historic event in Exmouth's calendar. Whether individual, school, club, business, whatever or whoever, we want you to come along and have a fun weekend and help us to help you celebrate.Do please get in touch and help us with the teddy bears' picnic, fun run, baby show or come and show off your skills and crafts or just sell your goods, whether new or used, as long as it is not alcohol or weapons. It is all free, unless you wish to make a donation to our local good causes when we will willingly accept your cash.Helping to cover the cost of this weekend are East Devon District Council, Exmouth Town Council, our Tribute Fund and Councillor Mrs Brenda Taylor, who generously donated �1,000.Please do support your park and join in the service to our brave servicemen, past and present, on this very special occasion.Lionel R Howell,10 Cheshire Road, Exmouth.