ADMINISTRATIVE red tape which got in the way of a parish’s First World War commemoration has been solved.

As previously reported in the Gazette, Odiham Parish Council was beginning to make preparations for a end of First World War centenary event later this year, when it was discovered the council had to prove ownership of the parish’s war memorial before commencing any work.

It was informed of this unexpected development by Hart District Council, due to the memorial being listed by Historic England, after making plans to conduct cleaning and repairs and was told there would be a period of time where claims of ownership could be made.

However, Hart District Council has now resolved the issue and the work that the parish had planned to do can now go ahead.

Councillor Jon Hale, chair of Odiham Parish Council, said: “There have been no further complexities and the works are now being planned, we are now looking to appoint a contractor to complete the work.

“We want it to look properly maintained, and as smart as possible before any of the major events that we have lined up, including the centenary.”

The Royal British Legion will be laying a commemorative slab at the memorial later on this year before the commemoration event itself takes place.

The final date is still being resolved for the laying of the slab, though people will be invited to attend.

Cllr Hale added: “It was a huge relief, and we are very grateful for the input from Hart District Council, who informed us that the memorial did not require the ownership.

“They seemed keen to do the right thing after the coverage that this situation had, and it felt like a sensible decision.

“They did reach the decision to do this by themselves, with no pressure added.

“They have taken an active role to help us and the joint chief executive of Hart District Council has been giving input which is much appreciated.”

Odiham is celebrating another centenary this year when the 100th anniversary of the RAF is marked. On June 9, there will be a street party which will have a themed soapbox race.

Previous street parties in Odiham have yielded more than 1,000 people.