WORK to restore the War Memorial in Overton will begin after the parish council agreed to fund it.

Councillor Peter Baker, who has led the project, said the work will include cleaning and repainting the names of those who died in the First World War, after they started to wear away.

Funeral directors Spencer and Peyton quoted £950 for the painting, and offered to clean and resurface the memorial for no charge.

Fundraising will help to pay for the cost of the work, but Overton Parish Council agreed to put the funds in place now so work can begin as soon as possible.

Councillor Brian Langer pointed out that many councils are likely to request similar work in the lead-up to the anniversary of the First World War.

Cllr Baker said: “We are ahead of the pack.” He added: “The local British Legion is doing a walk to raise money and we have already had three offers of donations as well.”

Cllr Lucy Sloane Williams said: “It’s important that we do remember people who have put their lives on the block for the freedoms we are exercising tonight.”

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War, Cllr Baker is holding an exhibition in his shop, Overton Fireplaces, during August 2014, which will explain the stories behind some of the names on the memorial.