Local Hero’s Legacy: Cornish School Raises Funds for Ukraine Memorial
A Community Remembers: The Story of Chris Parry
Near Truro, a quiet primary school is undertaking a meaningful project that speaks to the heart of what community means. Kea Community Primary School, located in the heart of Cornwall’s neighbourhood landscape, is raising funds for a permanent sculpture to honour former pupil Chris Parry, an aid worker who died while rescuing civilians in eastern Ukraine in 2023. Chris was just 28 years old when he made the ultimate sacrifice, having personally helped evacuate more than 400 people from the warzone before being shot by Russian mercenaries. His parents, Rob and Christine Parry, have been deeply moved by the school’s initiative. They’ve described the sculpture plans as ‘wonderful’ and revealed that learning about the concept brought them to tears. The proposed memorial—a piece of Delabole slate carved to Chris’s height with a heart at its centre—will be created by sculptor Ben Dearsley. It’s a fitting tribute that captures both the physical presence of their son and the compassion that defined his short life. The school has nearly reached its £10,500 fundraising target, with community members recognising that Chris’s legacy deserves permanent recognition in the neighbourhood where his journey began.
How Local Families and Organisations Are Making a Difference
The fundraising campaign for Chris Parry’s memorial sculpture demonstrates how Cornish communities come together when it matters. Parents, local businesses, and school supporters have rallied behind Kea Community Primary School’s vision, understanding that this isn’t just about raising money—it’s about ensuring a former student’s extraordinary bravery isn’t forgotten. Local organisations across Cornwall have contributed to the effort, recognising that Chris’s story resonates far beyond Truro. His work as an aid worker embodies values that many in our county hold dear: compassion, courage, and a commitment to helping others in their darkest hours. For families in the area, this project serves as a powerful reminder to their children about what it means to make a real difference in the world. Teachers at Kea are using Chris’s story as an educational tool, helping young pupils understand global events and humanitarian work. The memorial will stand as a permanent fixture in the school grounds, visible to every child who walks through those gates. It sends a message that ordinary people from ordinary Cornish neighbourhoods can do extraordinary things. As the fundraising target nears completion, local residents who haven’t yet contributed are encouraged to get involved—your support ensures this tribute becomes reality.
What Comes Next: Supporting the Memorial and Chris’s Legacy
With the fundraising campaign nearly complete, the next phase will be installation of the Delabole slate sculpture at Kea Community Primary School. Ben Dearsley’s artistic vision promises to create something truly special—a heart-centred memorial that captures the essence of Chris Parry’s compassionate life. Local residents who want to support this important project still have time to contribute toward the final funds needed. Schools in Cornwall are planning commemorative events to mark the sculpture’s installation, giving the broader community an opportunity to gather and honour Chris’s memory. If you’re visiting the area—whether you’re locals taking a day trip or visitors planning to go to Newquay or explore the broader Cornish coast near Fistral Beach and other attractions—the memorial will become part of our shared community landscape. The sculpture will serve as a conversation starter for families, visitors, and future generations about courage, humanitarian work, and what it means to be a good global citizen. For those interested in learning more or making final donations, the school is accepting contributions. This project exemplifies how our county remembers its heroes—not with grand monuments, but with thoughtful, heartfelt tributes created by our own community. Chris Parry’s story will continue to inspire people long after the sculpture is unveiled.
Source: An Nowodhow – the News in Cornish – BBC Sounds
