War memorials in Northamptonshire given listed status to mark centenary of conflict

Ten Northamptonshire war memorials are among hundreds listed already this year through Historic England's pledge to protect 2,500 memorials by 2018, marking the centenary of the First World War.
Earls Barton war memorialEarls Barton war memorial
Earls Barton war memorial

The memorials are in Blisworth, Cogenhoe, Cold Higham, Deanshanger, Earls Barton, Grendon, Nether Heyford, Wicken, Hartwell and Milton Malsor.

Built by communities in the years following the conflict, these memorials are a poignant, physical reminder of the sacrifices and loss the First World War brought about. One hundred years on, it is time to come together again to ensure our memorials are in good condition, and properly recognised by listing where appropriate.

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Louise Brennan, assistant director for Historic England in the East Midlands, said: “More than a million Britons lost their lives in the First World War. These new listings will help to ensure that their sacrifice is not forgotten. War memorials are a valued part of our heritage and it is important that we cherish and preserve them for future generations.

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

Roger Bowdler, director of listing at Historic England, said: “Researching, recording and recommending up to 2,500 more war memorials for listing over the next five years is a major task but one that Historic England is proud to undertake. These memorials will gain a place on the National Heritage List for England to tell the story of this country’s sacrifice and struggle.”

A spokesman for Historic England said: “We have pledged to list a total of 2,500 war memorials over the centenary of the First World War. To do this we need members of the public to put their war memorials forward for listing.

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“This is all part of a wider partnership we have forged with War Memorials Trust, Civic Voice and the Imperial War Museums to help communities discover, care for and conserve their local war memorials.

“Working with enthusiastic volunteers across the country, the programme is providing up to £2million in grants for war memorial repair and conservation and hundreds of workshops to teach people how to record their memorials and put them forward for listing.

“Our goal is to see as many war memorials as possible are in a fitting condition for the centenary, and they remain cherished local landmarks for generations to come,” he added.