THE war memorial in the village of Longwick, has been listed for its historical interest.

It has been given grade two listing as part of an English Heritage scheme to list up to 500 war memorials a year over the next five years to mark the centenary of the First World War.

The English Heritage scheme has the backing of culture secretary, Sajid Javid, who leads for the Government on First World War commemorations.

Longwick’s war memorial was erected in 1920 and lists the names of 14 local men from the village who died in the First World War. It was unveiled and dedicated by the Bishop of Buckingham on 10 October, 1920.

It was a particularly poignant ceremony because three of the bishop’s four sons had died in the war. It has been listed for its historic significance to this small community and for the design and craftsmanship of this sombre and dignified memorial.

Roger Bowdler, designation director at English Heritage, said: "Researching, recording and recommending up to 2,500 more war memorials for listing over the next five years is a major task but one that English Heritage is proud to undertake. These memorials will gain a place on the National Heritage List for England to tell the story of this country’s sacrifice and struggle."

War Memorials Trust is working in partnership with English Heritage to encourage applications to list war memorials and wants people to report war memorials in poor condition so that it can help get these memorials repaired. For details on getting a memorial listed or repaired - or both, look at http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/caring/first-world-war-home-front/remembrance