Dear Editor,

THIS morning I attended the tree planting ceremony in honour of the late Harlow Labour MP Stan Newens at the Gibberd Garden.

Here, amongst many friends, family and comrades we celebrated Stan’s life and political career with some heartfelt speeches in the beautiful grounds of the former home of Sir Fred Gibberd and the sun even made an appearance in the winter sky for the duration of the ceremony.

Stan was revered across party divides and was a hero to many, not just those of us of the left, and that was reflected in the attendance today. 

A true internationalist and champion for Harlow and socialism, as his tree grows we will continue to be enchanted and inspired by the light Stan brought into our lives.

Cllr Jodi Dunne

Bush Fair ward