DLP remembers Sir Garry as wreath laid at statue

The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) on Friday laid a wreath at National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers’, statue outside Kensington Oval in the latest tribute to the cricket icon ahead of Wednesday’s State Funeral. Acting President Stephen Lashley speaking to media personnel while surrounded by the party’s executive. (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt) The brief wreath laying formed part of the outpouring of tributes following the passing of the legendary Barbadian cricketer, whose achievements transformed the game and elevated Barbados’ profile on the international stage.   Lashley later told reporters that the party believed it was important to honour a man whose influence stretched far beyond cricket. “We have come here to pay our tribute to The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers,” he said. “Sir Garfield Sobers, as you know, has been an icon in the cricketing world. He has represented Barbados and the West Indies in an outstanding manner.” Lashley described Sir Garry’s death as “a tremendous loss, not only for us here in Barbados but across the world”, adding that the DLP felt it had a duty to publicly acknowledge his contribution. “We felt that it was our duty in the Democratic Labour Party to physically come here and demonstrate the fact that we, too, feel a tremendous part of that loss… We are here this morning to lay a wreath in honour of Sir Garry.” He also commended the many individuals and organisations that have paid their respects in recent days, saying the widespread tributes reflected the esteem in which Sir Garry was held both locally and internationally. Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt Looking beyond the mourning period, Lashley said Sobers’ legacy should continue to inspire future generations. “We believe that Sir Garry’s memory will continue,” he said. “All that he stood for will continue to be a part of not only the folklore of Barbados, but certainly should be celebrated in so many ways.” He noted that the cricket legend’s remarkable career and personal conduct offered valuable lessons for young people. “There are so many parts of his career that can be emulated, and we certainly hope that not only in cricket but the outstanding way in which he carried himself can be a model for our schoolchildren in particular and certainly a model for our nation.” Lashley said it was a privilege to lead the party’s tribute to one of Barbados’ greatest sons. “We’re very honoured to be here this morning and certainly it’s been an honour for me, as Acting President of the Democratic Labour Party, to join with my comrades in laying this wreath in honour of the outstanding service of Sir Garfield Sobers.” (SB) The post DLP remembers Sir Garry as wreath laid at statue appeared first on Barbados Today.