HILLINGDON Council is restoring the borough’s iconic Polish War Memorial in time for a special ceremony to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Work will be completed to clean the metalwork and stone, and restore the pond and paving in time for the service on Saturday, September 4, at the memorial in South Ruislip.

More than 150 veterans will join HRH The Duke of Kent KG, the Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, the Deputy Polish Ambassador and senior Air Force officers at this special event, organised by the Polish Air Force Association Trust.

The service begins at midday and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will make a special fly past during the ceremony to remember those from the Polish Air Force who died during World War II.

The Central Band of the Royal Air Force will provide the music.

Leader of Hillingdon Council, Councillor Ray Puddifoot, said: “As part of the council’s Civic Pride programme we have been refurbishing the borough’s war memorials and I am extremely pleased that the newly restored Polish War Memorial is ready for this important day.

“We owe so much to these brave war veterans and it will be a privilege to be part of this day.”

The Chairman of the Polish Air Force Association, Eugeniusz Borysiuk,added: “Each year we remember 1,900 Polish aircrew and ground staff who gave their lives in the war.

"This memorial, now beautifully restored, is a fitting tribute to their sacrifice and marks the continuing bond between the local community and the veterans and descendants of those who fought, for your freedom and ours.”

The memorial, which is a Grade II monument, stands next to the roundabout on the A40, and was unveiled on 2 November 1948 by Lord Tedder, Marshal of the Royal Air Force.

It is made from Portland stone and Polish granite, with bronze lettering and is topped by a large bronze Polish Air Force eagle. The bronze eagle has been restored to its original condition as part of the conservation work, which includes the re-gilding of its beak and talons.

For more information about the Battle of Britain 70th Anniversary and commemorative events being held in the borough visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/battleofbritain