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Aerial Tribute: Capturing the Canadian Maple Memorial at Bramshott

  • Colin Fyfield
  • Nov 17, 2022
  • 2 min read

Every day, I drive past the A3 Commemorative Maple Planting at Bramshott, a living memorial honoring the 418 Canadian servicemenwho trained locally and died during the First and Second World Wars. Each maple tree, imported from Canada, symbolizes a fallen soldier, with those from World War I interred at St. Mary’s Churchyard in Bramshott and St. Joseph’s Churchyard in Grayshott. 



Aerial view of a cemetery with colorful autumn trees in red, orange, and green. Rows of headstones are visible on a vibrant grassy field.
A serene aerial view of the churchyard at Bramshott Church, showcasing the orderly rows of Canadian servicemen's headstones surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.



In September 2022, the vibrant autumn hues of these maples caught my eye, and I envisioned capturing their beauty from above. Returning in early October with my drone, I attempted to translate this vision into an HDR aerial image. However, the initial results didn’t align with what I had imagined, leading me to set the project aside temporarily.



Aerial view of highway with red and green trees on sides, cars traveling. Overcast sky with sunset glow. Mood is calm and serene.
Aerial perspective of the A3 road in Bramshgot, attractively bordered by vibrant maple trees showcasing brilliant autumn hues.


From Local Sharing to National Acclaim


After revisiting and refining the image, I shared it in a small drone enthusiasts’ group, where it received an enthusiastic response. Encouraged, I posted it on the Liphook Facebook group, and within days, it garnered over 400 likes and numerous comments. The image’s reach extended further when the Daily Mail approached me for publication, resulting in a full-page feature. Local newspapers also showcased the photograph, and it was later shortlisted in the ‘Drone’ category for the London Camera Exchange Photographer of the Year.


Aerial view of a tree-lined road with autumn colors in Hampshire. Text: "In a blaze of colour, autumn salutes war heroes."
A vibrant display of red maple trees lines a highway in Hampshire, honoring Canadian servicemen from both World Wars as autumn paints the landscape with its colorful tribute.



Historical Significance of the Maple Memorial


The Bramshott Camp was one of the largest Canadian military camps in the UK during both World Wars, housing thousands of soldiers. The original memorial comprised an avenue of sycamore trees planted post-World War II. However, due to safety concerns, these were replaced in the 1980s with 400 Canadian maple trees, each corresponding to a grave in the nearby churchyards. The final trees were planted on Canada Sunday, 25th June 1995. 


In 2008, a pedestrian underpass was opened, allowing visitors to safely access both sides of the memorial, ensuring that the legacy of these servicemen continues to be honored. 



Aerial view of a road lined with vibrant autumn trees in shades of red and orange, set against a vast green forest and dramatic sunset sky.
A scenic aerial view of a winding road flanked by vibrant autumn trees, set against a dramatic sunset sky, capturing the serene beauty of the countryside in fall.


Reflecting on the Journey


This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of photography to connect communities and honor history. Capturing the Canadian Maple Memorial from above not only showcased the beauty of the landscape but also highlighted the profound sacrifices made by these soldiers.


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