Wisbech factory staff join Remembrance ceremony as three bronze war memorials are re-dedicated at Purina site

Employees at the PURINA PetCare Factory together with Factory Manager Martin Ruepp, far right, read out the names of the fallen during the service (Image: Archant)

The memorial plaques commemorate members of the armed forces and civilians from Spillers Pet Foods UK who died during World War One and World War Two.

As Nestlé Purina acquired Spillers Pet Foods in 1998 ownership of the plaques was passed to the company after they were discovered in a derelict building.

With the help of the War Memorials Trust the plaques were cleaned and restored.

They are now installed outside of reception at the Wisbech factory, which is a former Spillers Pet Foods UK site.

Wreaths were laid at the memorial during the ceremony (Image: Archant)

In an emotional ceremony the 145 names on the two World War Two memorial plaques and the one World War One memorial plaque were read out before the last post was sounded. Prayers were said during the service and two minutes’ silence was observed.

Plans are in place to mark Remembrance Day at the site each year.

Wisbech factory manager Martin Ruepp said: “It was a really special and emotional day for all of us at the factory.

“The memorials are a fitting tribute to those people who served their country so valiantly.

Wisbech factory manager Martin Ruepp’s message (Image: Archant)

“We see these memorials as a chance for us to say thank you to all those who fought to preserve democracy and freedom and we are all honoured to be entrusted with their care.”

A reception followed the ceremony at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Wisbech