War tributes on safety list

Two war memorials will be preserved for the future after marking it onto a protection list to mark the centenary of the First World War
Castle Eden war memorial.Castle Eden war memorial.
Castle Eden war memorial.

Public body Historic England has pledged to protect 2,500 memorials across the country by 2018, to commemorate the anniversary.

So far the tributes off Stockton Road in Castle Eden and the one in Easington Colliery Cemetery have made it onto the list, along with 17 others across the region.

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Built by communities in the years following the conflict, these memorials are a poignant, physical reminder of the sacrifices and loss.

However, one hundred years on, many have become weather beaten.

Carol Pyrah, Historic England’s planning director in the North East, said: “Over a million Britons lost their lives in the First World War.

“ It’s important that their sacrifice is not forgotten – and that the lessons learnt during that time are as resonant now as they were then.

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“The centenary programme aims to bring us together more closely as a nation to honour the lives and bravery of all those who served. War memorials are a valued part of our heritage and it is absolutely fitting that we cherish and preserve them for future generations.”

She added: “Whether we have relatives whose names are on local memorials, or who fought alongside those who died, we all have a connection with remembrance.

“I would urge everyone to make sure their local memorial is in good condition. If it isn’t, then Historic England, the War Memorials Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund all have grants and advice available.”

For more information on the grants, visit www.warmemorialstrust.org/grants.