Hero's rose garden for Cyrus

Alex Gore • Published 19 Nov 2009 09:00 0 Comments

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School's tribute to former pupil

A SOLDIER whose final inspiring letter to his family was read around the world has been held up as a shining example to pupils.

Micklands Primary School teachers and pupils unveiled a plaque at its main entrance commemorating 19-year-old Rifleman Cyrus Thatcher, who was killed in June while serving with 2 Rifles in Helmand Province.

They have also created a memorial rose garden in his honour.

Cyrus' parents, Helena and Robin, and brothers, Zac, 22, and Steely, 18, who are also former Micklands pupils, joined teachers, parents, children and Reading Mayor and Mayoress Fred and Jean Pugh, to plant roses in the garden - three of which are named Peace, Hero and Remember Me.

Assistant headteacher, Rutta Choudrie, who led an Armistice Day school assembly with the Thatchers, said: "We have been teaching the children about Cyrus and how he was at Micklands too. I think it has had a big impact on them.

"More than anything they have learned that Cyrus had a goal in life and that he fulfilled his dream. But they also understand that there are obstacles on the way and that Cyrus needed his GCSEs to join the army."

Ms Choudrie also praised the children's behaviour, which was equally impeccable on the day of Cyrus' funeral, when they were asked to stay inside because the school backs on to Henley Road cemetery, where the young soldier is buried.

Ms Choudrie, who remembers Manchester United fan Cyrus as a pupil and as the football team's goalkeeper, added: "He was a lovely child who was always keen to do things. He was friendly, caring and always showed a lot of initiative.

"We knew he wanted to be an action man."

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 19 Nov 09

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