War memorial restoration launched

An artists impression of how the restored monument would look

A crumbling memorial to soldiers from an East Sussex town who fought in the two world wars is to be returned to its former glory.

The Grade II listed monument in Alexandra Park, Hastings, is to undergo a major restoration project.

Hastings Borough Council has agreed to spend £60,000 and wants to raise another £60,000 for the scheme.

Councillor Maureen Charlesworth said: "The memorial is important to the people of Hastings & St Leonards."

She added: "It helps us to remember those we've lost during these wars, but also those who have died in wars around the world."

The structure was unveiled in 1922 to commemorate the men of Hastings & St Leonards who lost their lives during World War I.

In 1992 the names of those soldiers who died in World War II were added and the structure, designed by Rodin protégé Margaret Winser, was given Grade II listing.