WORK to repair and stabilise Taunton's iconic war memorial in Vivary Park is set to begin next week after being delayed to allow this year's VJ Day commemorations to take place.
Somerset Council has confirmed work on the 26ft-high monument will start on Monday, August 17, rather than this week, ensuring it remains accessible for the annual service marking Victory over Japan Day on Saturday, August 15.
The memorial, which was unveiled in 1922, was originally built to commemorate the more than 400 Taunton residents who lost their lives or were reported missing during the First World War. Over the years, it has also been inscribed with the names of those who died in subsequent conflicts, including the Second World War.
Councillor Mike Best, chair of Somerset Council, said it was important that the monument remained the focus of this weekend's tributes.
Iconic Taunton war memorial to be restored after VJ Day
He said: "It is an important historic monument and close to the hearts of people in Taunton and the wider area. We must maintain it so that it can continue to play its part in Remembrance events."
The project will involve stabilising the memorial's platform. As part of the work, steps surrounding the monument will be removed before being repositioned once repairs have been completed.
During the works, the memorial and the immediate surrounding area will be fenced off. Wreaths currently displayed at the site will be moved to the memorial bench nearby, allowing visitors to continue viewing them respectfully.
People have been invited to the 81st anniversary of VJ Day at Vivary Park, where many residents and visitors remember and honour those who served in the Far East during the Second World War and pay tribute to the sacrifices made in securing peace.
The council said the wreaths will remain there for four weeks before being removed.
The war memorial is one of Taunton's most recognisable landmarks and hosts annual remembrance services attended by veterans, civic leaders and members of the public. The repair work is intended to help preserve the monument for future generations while ensuring it remains safe and structurally sound.
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