100 years of the Hoylake and West Kirby War Memorial to be marked tomorrow

A special service will mark the centenary of the memorial which bears the names of local soldiers who gave their lives in the First and Second World Wars.

It was unveiled by the Earl of Birkenhead in 1922 in front of a crowd of 5000 people.

The memorial is notable for the magnificent statue of a British Tommy by Charles Sergeant Jagger. On the opposite side is a hooded, robed female figure representing humanity, with broken chains and holding a wreath

Jagger was a hugely talented sculptor who also designed the Royal Artillery Memorial at Hyde Park Corner in London.

The Royal Artillery Memorial - picture courtesy of Iridescenti

There will be a short service and a two minute silence at 10:45am, attended by Mayor and local councillor, Jeff Green.

The event has been organised by the Friends of Grange Hill, who will also unveil a new information board.

Refurbishment work has recently taken place at the memorial, including the placing of new render on the plinth.

Chairman of Hoylake and District Remembrance Sunday Committee, John S Brown, told West Kirby Today: "At the call of King and country, men, young and old from across Hoylake and districts waved good-bye to their loved ones and set off for what was supposed to be the war to end all wars.

"It was those who returned, often with physical and mental illnesses, and our community's ancestors that built the Grange Hill War Memorial.

"100 years on from the official unveiling, our monument still towers over our district, acting as a reminder to all those who bravely defend our freedom, way of life, and often who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"All are welcome and it would be most poignant to see you, our community, 100 years on pause, reflect and pay their thanks to all who have, and continue to protect us."

The service will be followed by light refreshments at The Wro on Grange Road.

 The Tommy on the Hoylake and West Kirby memorial - Photograph by Rept0n1x