Swindon, England
United Kingdom
Stratton Wood Birchgrove Memorial Grove since 1 October 1996
without names
The Woodland Project
In 1996 The Birchgrove Group sponsored the planting of 1200 trees at the Woodland Trust's woodland creation site at Stratton St. Margaret, near Swindon, Wiltshire. This grove of trees will create a living and lasting tribute to the lives of people with haemophilia who were infected with HIV via contaminated clotting factors. lt was intended by Birchgrove that this woodland should become a peaceful place for people to visit and remember those who had their lives so profoundly affected by HIV. This grove of trees is not only a memorial to those who have sadly died, but also shows the resilience and strength of those who are still affected and living with HIV/AIDS.

The Stone
A locally sourced stone marks the site of the wood. It was recovered from an underground glacial riverbed and is inscribed with the words:
"Birchgrove - This grove celebrates the lives of the 1200 people with Haemophilia infected with HIV"
The stone and its installation were funded by individual sponsors including Birchgrove reader Stuart, who completed a sponsored cycle ride from Lands End to John O'Groats. Stuart said after his epic journey, "I'm proud to have done the ride to raise money for the Birchgrove Woodland - and I'd do it all again if I had to."

There is a hardcore path that skirts the perimeter of the Birchgrove plot which is suitable for wheelchairs. However the ground around the stone and throughout the grove is rough grassland.
Photos © The Birchgrove Group



24 May 2004
The Birchgrove Group, Cardiff