New street a tribute to war poet

War poet Wilfred Owen has been commemorated at a new housing development in Shrewsbury.The George Wimpey Rosehill development in the town has had a new road named Wilfred Owen Close.

A ceremony was held last week as the new road received its signs. Guest of honour at the occasion was Peter Owen, nephew of Wilfred Owen.

Also present was Councillor Miles Kenny, who sits on the planning committee of Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council, Lynne Wilkes from George Wimpey and children from the Wilfred Owen School.

Wilfred Owen was born in 1893 in Shropshire, and lived the early years of his life in Underdale Road and Monkmoor Road, the former being a short walk from the new Wilfred Owen Close. In his poetry he wrote about the horrors of trench life in World War One.

He was killed in action on November 4, 1918, just one week before the signing of the Armistice that ended the war.

Technical manager Alan Jarvis said: “As an area with such strong connections to Wilfred Owen, it seemed fitting to name the new road after him when the council made an appeal for suggestions.

“We were incredibly pleased that one of Wilfred Owen’s descendants was able to attend the official placement of the road signs, which will now stand as a reminder of his contribution to 20th century English literature.”

Celebrations to mark the 90th anniversary of Owen’s death will take place in November.

The Wilfred Owen Association has announced that it plans to commemorate his death and the signing of the 1918 armistice with a wealth of events including talks, readings and performances.