Built by communities in the years following the conflict, these memorials are a poignant, physical reminder of the sacrifices and loss World War One brought about. One hundred years on, Historic England has said it is time to come together again to ensure our memorials are in good condition, and properly recognised and listed where appropriate.
Among the memorials listed in West Devon are Brentor, Bow Parish, Bere Ferrers, Bere Alston and Bratton Clovelly.
Historic England, together with War Memorials Trust, is offering advice and grants to help members of the public submit applications to have their local war memorials listed and repaired where necessary.
Lord Ashton of Hyde, First World War minister said: ‘As we enter the final year of our First World War centenary commemorations, we want to ensure the bravery and sacrifice of those who served is never forgotten.
‘Local war memorials are a poignant reminder of how the war affected our communities and of those who never came home. I encourage everyone to visit their local memorial and to learn more about their connection to this pivotal point in our history.’
Duncan Wilson, Historic England chief executive, 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.’
For details on getting a memorial listed or repaired – or both — look at historicengland.org.uk/news-and-features/first-world-war-home-front/how-can-i-get-involved/protecting-our-war-memorials