30 September 1937 to 5 November 2017

A public memorial for Helen John, co-founder of the Greenham Common Womens Peace Camp and former CND Vice Chair took place in Shipley, West Yorkshire, on 10 December, following Helen’s death in November, aged 80.

London CND chair Carol Turner, a long-time friend of Helen, read a message from Labour Party leader and CND Vice President Jeremy Corbyn:

‘I am so sorry at the death of Helen John. I knew Helen for many years and was always impressed by her penetrating honesty and determination to create a world of peace. She inspired and taught in equal measure that concentrating on improving people's lives, inspiring young people to create a world of cooperation and peace not war was the right way forward. She lived her life for peace and her presence at Greenham, Faslane, Molesworth, Menwith Hill, Fylingdales showed her practical energy and enthusiasm. I know today is one of sadness but in this we have all learned from Helen and will continue to.’

The Kirkgate Centre was packed by peace movement activists, many from Yorkshire CND. A short humanist address was followed by testaments from friends and co-campaigners, including CND chair Dave Webb, and songs from a community choir. The memorial took place nearby Otley and Keighley where Helen lived in the latter part of her life.

Read Carol Turner’s tribute [‘Helen John remembered’ in News]