War memorial restored ahead of Armistice Day centenary

THE Welsh National War Memorial in Cardiff has been restored to “prime condition” in time for the centenary of Armistice Day tomorrow.

The Grade-II listed memorial at Alexandra Gardens in Cathays Park was designed by Sir John Ninian Comper and was completed in June 1928 to commemorate those who died in World War I.

It consists of a circular colonnade of 21 unfluted Corinthian columns with three projecting rectangular porticoes and has now been restored thanks to thousands of pounds worth of grant funding.

War Memorials Trust gave £29,720 and Cadw gave £10,000, allowing the memorial’s statues to be cleaned and waxed.

Essential work to the fountains and drainage of the memorial was also completed.

Michael Michael, Cardiff Council’s cabinet member for clean streets, recycling and environment, said: “The Welsh National War Memorial will be the focal point of the nation’s remembrance commemorations this Sunday and we are very grateful to the War Memorials Trust and Cadw for the funding that has enabled the restoration work to be carried out.

“I’m delighted that this important monument has been returned to such a prime condition.”

Frances Moreton, director of War Memorials Trust, added: “It is vital we ensure all our war memorials are in the best possible condition for their age and the charity is delighted to support this project.”