Forum topic: Norma Morris - Memorial Tree being planted in Conway Rec Sunday 29 March at 12.30pm

The following is an extract from the Winter 2014 issue of Civitas , the newsletter of the Tottenham Civic Society :

A Tree for Norma Morris

Norma Morris lived near me in Conway Road but I did not know her. In 1985 she met her death whilst on duty and I planted a tree in memory in our recreation ground. Unfortunately soon after the tree was vandalised. I did not rush to replace it.

It seemed the right time to plant another tree when a Friends Group was set up to help care for the recreation ground. I mentioned my wish to a committee member Illona when we were walking from the bus stop. The committee agreed to act and approached the council and, as a consequence, on David March’s suggestion, we planted a red oak for her. I, and the committee, decided to have a plaque on the tree, one just indicating that Norma died on duty.

Social Workers, following the tragic death of baby Peter, have been vilified by some of the press. The consequence has been Social Workers quitting the profession and, moreover, a dearth of recruits. Planting the tree and putting a plaque on it is more than an appreciation of a Social Worker who died tragically on duty. It is a tribute to all of them who carrying out the stressful and the difficult job they do. My grateful thanks go to the committee and all the others who have helped.

Dr Fred Clark