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The work forms part of Telford & Wrekin Council's ongoing, year-round programme of care for the Borough's war memorials, helping to preserve these important places of remembrance and ensure they remain fitting tributes to those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice.

In the build up to the remembrance commemorations, Council teams are visiting the various memorial sites to carry out respectful and sensitive cleaning and maintenance, alongside tidying surrounding areas by removing weeds, moss and fallen leaves.

Recognising the historic and commemorative significance of these sites, all work is undertaken sensitively and with great care. The Council follows conservation best practice and works in accordance with the latest guidance from the War Memorials Commission to help ensure memorials are maintained appropriately while protecting their long-term condition for future generations.

The Council recognises the importance of these memorials to local communities and appreciates residents' pride in them. However, people are asked not to clean memorials themselves, as even well-intentioned cleaning can unintentionally damage historic stonework, inscriptions and other features. Instead, memorials are cared for through the Council's planned maintenance programme, which reflects the latest conservation advice and uses appropriate methods to protect their historic character and ensure they remain fitting places of remembrance for future generations.

Councillor Paul Davis, Telford & Wrekin Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Civic Pride, said: 

"War memorials hold a special place in our communities, providing a focal point for remembrance throughout the year and particularly during the commemorations taking place each November.

"As residents come together for services, parades and acts of remembrance, it is important these memorials are cared for with the respect they deserve. Our year-round cleaning and maintenance programme helps ensure they remain fitting tributes to those who served and sacrificed for our country.

"We take great care in how this work is carried out, following recognised conservation guidance so that these important landmarks can continue to be preserved for future generations." 

Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said:

"Remembrance is an opportunity to reflect on the courage, service and sacrifice of all those who have served in our Armed Forces, and to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our country and the freedoms we enjoy today.

"Our war memorials stand as lasting reminders of their service and provide places where communities can come together to remember, reflect and pay their respects.

"As we approach Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, I encourage residents to support local commemorations across the Borough and take a moment to remember the contribution of generations past and present. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten."

A full list of Remembrance events taking place across the Borough can be found on the Telford & Wrekin Council website at: https://www.telford.gov.uk/twremembers