TRIUMPHANTLY and at long last, the Memorial to the women of the Second World War now stands in Whitehall, thus fulfilling our pledge to remember the seven million women who served our country in that global conflict.

At this time of defiant celebration amid renewed danger, we pay tribute to the Yorkshire veterans who inspired our charity, which allowed us to raise the enormous funds we needed and win national support.

The Evening Press played an invaluable role in our seven year struggle, which we deeply appreciate. It supported us from the start and stayed the course until the end.

No other newspaper rivalled its campaigning zeal on our behalf and we hope the judges of press awards take note.

On this historic occasion, we salute it and thank all our Yorkshire supporters for their donations and goodwill.

The Queen unveiled a wonderful monument on Saturday on behalf of the nation. But it will always have a special link with Yorkshire of which we should always be proud.

Rt Hon Baroness Boothroyd, Patron, and

Major (Retd) David Robertson, Chairman,

The Memorial to the Women of World War II Trust.

Updated: 09:36 Wednesday, July 13, 2005