Broadstone War Memorial Conservation Works
Last updated 13th July 2023
The Project
Broadstone War Memorial is a special place for reflection and a beautiful place to connect with nature. It is loved and treasured by many and protected nationally as a Grade II listed monument by Historic England.
Unveiled at a ceremony on 10 June 1920, it was paid for by public subscription which also funded the recreation ground and parkland which form the surroundings. The Memorial is carved in Portland stone and is the work of the noted sculptor Gilbert Bayes.
From 3rd-12th July conservators carried out vital conservation works to ensure the Memorial remains in good condition for future generations to enjoy.
The Works
Through this project we sought to sensitively care for the fabric of the War Memorial, to slow down its deterioration, assist in the monitoring of the structure and enhance its setting:
- Careful cleaning of the stone to remove dirt, pollution and a build up of organic matter has revealed the clarity of the carving; this work was carried out using a method of gentle dry brushing and specialist steam cleaning.
- The re-pointing of ‘open’ joints with lime mortar will prevent water ingress and further damage to the stone, and ensure the future structural stability of the memorial.
- ‘THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE’ Letters on the central inscription band were weathered and have been sharpened to make them legible again
- The WWII slate inscription tablet showed signs of de-lamination and pitting of the carving. Repairs were carried out to prevent further deterioration.
- Repairs and repointing of the paths provide a stable and accessible surface. The central grass surround has been replaced with a gravel surface which will help with drainage and maintenance in this area.
The War Memorial at completion of the conservation project
Our Conservators
Sally Strachey Historic Conservation Ltd are conservators of historic buildings, monuments and sculptures. Based in the south-west, their skilled carvers and masons have worked on some of the most important and treasured historic sites including Corfe Castle and Hardy Monument.
Progress updates
12th July. The conservation project is complete; final works included completion of the letter sharpening and repairs to the slate WWII panel. Two of our images below include the original bronze urns that are usually only brought out on Armistice Day.
The pictures below were taken between 6-10th July. Progress has included an assessment of the delamination of the WWII slate panel, letter sharpening has commenced, and a gravel surface has been added at the base of the memorial. Pointing of the path has been completed and final joints are being repointed on the memorial. Cover Meter readings to detect metal work inside the memorial have been taken to assess future monitoring of the structure.
The pictures below were taken on 5th July, by which time the conservators had test sampled panels for cleaning and pointing morters, brush and steam cleaned the memorial and path, made a start on the pointing of open joints, and excavated the soft area around the memorial to receive gravel aggregate infill.
The Sculptor
The life and work of the sculptor Gilbert Bayes is celebrated by the Gilbert Bayes Charitable Trust.
Project funding
We would like to thank War Memorials Trust and Broadstone Neighbourhood Forum for supporting the project.
Frances Moreton, Director, War Memorials Trust said, “War memorials connect us today to those who have given their lives in conflicts throughout history. Conserving them will ensure future generations can continue to pay their respects. War Memorials Trust was delighted to support this project and hopes it will ensure the war memorial remains a focal point for the community. Anyone concerned about any other war memorials that might need help should contact the charity, or if you believe it is important to preserve our war memorial heritage please donate to help us sustain our work.”
Listed Building Consent
Granted under Application APP/22/00886/L
Postcards from the Andrew Hawkes Historic Photo Collection
Project details
Budget £8,600
Funding £4,300 War Memorial Trust, £2,500 Broadstone Neighbourhood Forum Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), £1,800 other funding
Conservators Sally Strachey Historic Conservation Ltd, Wells
Project Leader Barbara Uphoff, Landscape Designer, Environment, BCP Council
T. 01202 123123
E. greenspaces@bcpcouncil.gov.uk