Memorial arch work completed for Remembrance event

The light Portland stone, seen here in 2015, had weathered over the years and needed careful cleaning

Renovation work on a major city war memorial has been completed in time for commemoration events.

The Arch of Remembrance, in Victoria Park, Leicester, was built to mark those who died in World War One and was dedicated in 1925.

Steam has been used to clean the Portland stone, along with repointing, regilding and restoration of the four painted stone flags carved into the archway.

The service will be attended by the granddaughters of Annie Glover and Elizabeth Butler, who originally unveiled the memorial after losing seven sons in the war.

The council said the project had cost about £120,000

The cenotaph was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens – the leading English architect of his generation - and originally cost more than £27,000.

Part of the £120,000 project was to repaint the four stone flags – the Union Flag for the Army, the White Ensign for the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force Ensign, and the Red Ensign for the Merchant Navy – using the original colours and processes used 100 years ago.

Ornamental ironwork commemorating overseas campaigns has been restored

City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: "Today the arch is looking as magnificent as ever, thanks to a programme of conservation works that have restored its weathered stone and faded surfaces.

"On Sunday, members of the armed forces, reservists, veterans and cadets will parade through the arch as part of Leicester's annual Service of Remembrance.

"It was important that this iconic memorial looked its best for the occasion, especially in its centenary year, so I'm pleased that the works have been completed to such a high standard, as befits the arch's Grade I Listed status."

To accommodate the ceremony, Granville Road car park will be closed from midnight on Saturday until about 13:00 GMT on Sunday and drivers are reminded that vehicles should not be left in the car park overnight.