The first Commonwealth war memorial outside London was unveiled in Bradford.

Troops from former British colonies who fought in World Wars I and II were honored at the memorial Wednesday.

It has been placed next to the Bradford Cenotaph and will “provide a lasting tribute to the bravery of Commonwealth soldiers, offering a space for reflection and unity”.

The Mayor of Bradford, Councilor Bev Mullaney, led the ceremony, along with the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Ed Anderson, a Commonwealth Office representative and a war veteran.

Mullaney said: “It is incredibly important for us, as a city and borough, to recognize and remember the service and sacrifice of those who contributed to the UK’s war efforts from Commonwealth countries.

Councilor Joanne Dodds, Bradford Council’s Armed Forces Advocate, added: “This is an important day for Bradford as we unveil the first Commonwealth war memorial outside London.

“It will be an important space for all communities to come together within our memorial garden and remember the sacrifices made by Commonwealth nations during the world wars.”

‘Diverse heritage’

Bradford City Council said the opening was in line with the city’s designation as City of Culture.

Dr Saira Ali, landscape architect who designed the memorial, said: “Creating this memorial was an honour. Our aim was to design a space that not only reflected the deep respect we have for Commonwealth troops, but also served as a a place of peace and memory for all.

“It reinforces our commitment to remembering and uniting communities around shared sacrifices.

“The Memorial Garden in which it is located offers a calm and reflective environment, where the beauty of nature complements the solemnity of the monument”

The ceremony was attended by veterans including Mirza Khan, 102, who served in the Indian Army during World War II, and Jack Crawford, 101, who grew up in Jamaica but joined the British forces and was based in Filey, North Yorkshire.

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