If you were around in the 1950s and 60s, you will no doubt recall the Aldermaston marches, anti-nuclear weapons demonstrations which took place between London and the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment in Berkshire.
At their height in the sixties, they attracted thousands of demonstrators drawing significant attention to the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament both in the UK and around the world.
In evidence during the marches was the CND symbol, created in 1958 by Gerald Holtom, a professional designer and artist, which represents in semaphore the letters ‘N’ and ‘D’ within an unbroken circle. The symbol was displayed on hundreds of placards on the first march, later being reproduced on badges and, more recently, adorning the pyramid stage at Glastonbury.
To celebrate the importance of the man who created the symbol, now more widely recognised as the Peace Symbol, Hythe Civic Society has commissioned a blue plaque to be displayed on Gerald Holtom’s former home in Hillside Street, Hythe. On Saturday, 4th August, the Society was delighted to welcome Gerald’s daughter, Rebecca, to view the plaque before it is put in place.
A formal unveiling of the plaque is planned for later in the year, when it is hoped that Rebecca will return to Hythe from her home in France to do the honours. Through his iconic design, her father has helped to keep the peace movement in the public eye and it is fitting that this should be marked by the Society.
The plaque will join those already installed by the Society for Elizabeth Bowen (Author), Don Thompson (Olympic Gold medallist) and Ronald Ward (Architect).
The photograph shows Rebecca Holtom in front of Hillside Manor, 5 Hillside Street, Hythe.
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