Sunday evening witnessed an impressive ceremony at Carleton Rode when the war memorial to the fallen was unveiled and dedicated. Designed in Portland stone, the cross stands 12 ft in height, and is a striking object in the Parish. A sunken panel in the solid rock work block bears the names of the fallen and the inscription, “In Memoriam, God, King, Country, 1914-18”.
The parish church was crowded, a large number not being able to be admitted. The first portion of the special service was conducted by the Archdeacon of Norfolk (the Ven. G M McDermott), the lesson being read by the Rev W G Jackson, Baptist Minister. An offertory (amounting to £8) was made on behalf of the Norfolk Regiment Fund. In an interesting address, the Archdeacon referred to the value of the historical association connected with parish churches, and mentioned the many spiritual lessons that latest memorial would teach (sic). At the conclusion of the service, the congregation proceeded to the cemetery in the following order:- church wardens, sidesmen, war memorial committee, choir and clergy, returned soldiers, and the relatives of the dead. The memorial was unveiled by Major Cantley, who, in an earnest address to the men, remarked that it would ever remind them of their duty as Christians and citizens – their hope as Christians in the Cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ; their duty as citizens to the Empire for which they had fought and to the great principles of Justice, Freedom and Liberty, for which their comrades had laid down their lives. The service of dedication was conducted by the Archdeacon who rehearsed the names of the fallen. During the singing of a hymn, some beautiful wreaths and crosses were placed upon the memorial by the relatives. The sounding of the “Last Post” brought the solemn service to a conclusion. The parishioners wish to express their thanks to Mr W H Brown (Chairman) and the Committee for their painstaking and successful efforts. The Cross was designed by Mr Sidney Smith, son of the late schoolmaster, and the work was carried out by Mr F W Youngs of Attleborough.
from the Eastern Daily Press – Saturday 11th September 1920
We would like to thank and recognise the generosity of Leonie Smith for her contribution.