Cambridgeshire war memorials granted listed status

Four World War One memorials have been recognised ahead of Remembrance weekend.

Ahead of Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, four First World War memorials in Cambridgeshire have been given Grade II listed status.

Built in the aftermath of the First World War, they were among thousands that were erected across England in memory of the many people who lost their lives in the conflict. 

In place of graves, these memorials became focal points for local communities to mourn and honour their dead. 

Many of the war memorials also have plaques commemorating those lost during the Second World War.

Below are the four war memorials recognised in Cambridgeshire:

Cheveley War Memorial - a tall and imposing war memorial taking the form of a Latin budded cross atop an octagonal pillar

Kirtling and Upend War Memorial - a Celtic cross standing proudly on the green at the junction of Cowlinge Road and Newmarket Road

Little Thetford War Memorial - a Celtic wheel erected in the Little Thetford village cemetery

Lode War Memorial - a prominent Celtic wheel next to the Church of St James

Photo: Robert Edwards/Historic England

Tony Calladine, Regional Director for Historic England in the East of England:

"These war memorials are an important reminder of local people who gave their lives, in two world wars, to secure the freedom we enjoy today. 

"Behind the names on these listed war memorials are people whose stories we should discover and remember, to ensure that they are not forgotten and that younger generations learn their story, too. 

"We’d love to see your information or family story added to the record of your local listed war memorial."

Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday take place on the 11th and 12th November 2023.

A list of events happening locally can be found here.