Church appeal for funds to repair war memorial
An appeal has been made for funds to restore a Black Country war memorial to its former glory.
Heath Town Lichgate war memorial on Bushbury Road has fallen into disrepair with a damaged roof, perishing mortar and a broken downpipe – while stones have also found to be falling from the top of the memorial.
Now, members of nearby Holy Trinity Church are trying to raise awareness to gather funds to repair the historic landmark.
The group has already received £1,030 from the War Memorials Trust grants scheme, which is supported by the First World War Memorials Programme and other voluntary contributions.
But this lump sum only makes up half of the total needed to renovate the memorial.
A JustGiving page has been set up and has currently raised just over £200 towards the target of £1,500.
Frances Moreton, director of War Memorials Trust said: “War memorials are a tangible connection to our shared past, creating a link between the fallen and today.
"It is vital we ensure all our war memorials are in the best possible condition for their age and the charity is delighted to support this project.
"The centenary of the First World War is a wonderful opportunity for local communities across the country to protect and conserve their war memorials.
"If anyone knows of any other war memorials in need of help please contact us.”
The Lichgate, which sits at the edge of Holy Trinity church, and opposite Heath Town Park, stands as a memorial to 225 people who died from the two World Wars.
It was unveiled in 1920 and Second World War names added later.
People can donate to the Just Giving page by visiting: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lichgateheathtown.
Any surplus donations are being put into a church fund for any future repair work on the Lichgate. There are plans to remove graffiti in the future once more urgent repair work has been completed.
