Memorial artwork for lost children at Poole crematorium - Crematorium.eu News about crematoria in Europe - www.crematorium.eu informs about crematoria in Europe- Krematorium.eu- crematorio.eu, find a crematorium

A POOLE resident has funded a memorial artwork at the town’s crematorium, commemorating lost children.
Charles Dook donated £20,000 for the piece but died last year before getting the chance to see the results of his generous gift.
However his niece Alison Hewitt and her partner Wim Hogeveen came over from Canada to attend the official opening at Poole Crematorium.

They were joined by Mr Dook’s friend Nora Tolson, as Poole Mayor, Cllr Graham Wilson unveiled the work by local artist Zoe Cull from Stoneform.

His gesture was prompted by family loss, Mr Dook’s sister lost a son at the age of one, Alison’s brother.

The peaceful seashore theme includes three benches carved from Portland stone with a central pool. The paving is carved with children’s footprints, beginning in infancy and going round without leaving the circle.

Surrounded by lavender, the piece includes words from the first verse of Arthur O’Shaughnessy’s We Are the Music Makers, taken from his 1874 poem Ode.

The aim of the artwork is to create an environment for contemplation, with visitors becoming part of the piece.

“This is a wonderful gift by Mr Dook to the people of Poole, and it will be appreciated by many residents over the coming years,” said Cllr Judy Butt, cabinet portfolio holder for public engagement and participation.

“I’m delighted there will be a place to go for quiet reflection and remembrance following the loss of a loved one.”