Charlesworth war memorial makes the grade

The announcement comes just months after a controversial county council proposal to reposition the obelisk to allow a reconfiguration of the road was scrapped.

The statue, at the junction of Town Lane and Glossop Road, has been listed at Grade II as part of a nationwide English Heritage scheme to list up to 500 memorials in time for the centenary of the First World War.

The memorial, which was unveiled in April 1920 by prominent local resident Major S Hill Woods, commemorates the 33 men from the village who fell in both world wars.

It is believed to have been funded by public subscription, co-ordinated by Charlesworth Parish Council.

An English Heritage spokesman said the monument was chosen to be designated for both its historic and architectural interest.

He said: “It acts as an eloquent witness to the tragic impacts of world events on the community, and the sacrifices it has made in the conflicts.

“It was erected in the great age of memorial building in the aftermath of the First World War, when simple, dignified designs such as the Charlesworth memorial eloquently conveyed the massive sense of loss felt in so many parts of the country.”

Culture secretary Sajid Javid 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.

“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. 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.”