Garforth Celebrates World Peace Flame Milestone

A joyful and inspiring celebration took place in Garforth as the community came together to mark nine years of the World Peace Flame monument at Diamond Jubilee Garden.

The occasion was marked by the unveiling of a new solar-powered World Peace Flame lamp, symbolising a continued commitment to peace and sustainability for the future. The event was officially unveiled by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Dan Cohen, whose presence highlighted the importance of the initiative both locally and across the city.

A Community Effort

The Garforth Peace Flame Project, led by Sue Owen and Fiona Murray, has been at the heart of this initiative from the beginning. Their vision – to root the Flame within the local community – was clear throughout the event, as people gathered to celebrate shared values of kindness, respect, and unity.

Young People at the Centre

The highlight of the day was the contribution of local children, who shared thoughtful reflections on what peace means to them.

The event began at St Benedict’s Roman Catholic School, where pupils from several schools spoke about their experiences before joining the wider celebration. Their voices brought a sense of hope and purpose to the day.

A Global Message

Annie Jones, Chair of the World Peace Flame Foundation Charity, attended the event and spoke about the importance of inspiring the next generation.

“If you want the future to be brighter, it has to start with the young ones,” she said, highlighting how peace begins with the values we nurture early in life.

Sue Owen and Fiona Murray were also presented with the World Peace Flame Ambassador Award in recognition of their dedication and impact.

Looking Ahead

Speaking at the event, the Lord Mayor described the celebration as something that “celebrates all that is good about the city and the world,” highlighting the importance of kindness, respect, and community spirit. He also reflected on the powerful role of young people, noting that “peace begins with all of us carrying those messages of light, those messages of love.”

The celebration was a powerful reminder that peace starts within communities. With strong local leadership and the energy of young people, the Garforth Peace Flame continues to shine as a symbol of hope—carrying its message forward for years to come.