Posted on: Tuesday 6 May 2025
Work has been carried out to restore eight war memorials ahead of commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day this week.
A professional restoration company inspected each monument to assess the work required to improve and conserve them for future generations.
Work was then carried out to clean, re-wax and re-lay inscriptions where needed on the following memorials:
- Blaenavon War Memorial
- Pontypool Park Memorial Gates
- Panteg Cemetery War Memorial
- Pontnewydd War Memorial
- Croesyceiliog and Llanyrafon War Memorial
- Cwmbran Park War Memorial
- Henllys War Memorial – Henllys Village Hall
- Old Cwmbran Clock Tower Memorial
Council Leader Cllr Anthony Hunt said: "I am very pleased we have been able to fund this important work as a tribute to those who fought and died.
"These memorials are of huge significance to our communities, as shown by those volunteers who help to keep the area around them clean throughout the year.
"I would like to invite all residents to join us at a special service on Thursday to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom during the Second World War."
Cllr Mandy Owen, Executive Member for Environment, added: "These memorials are more than just structures; they are focal points for remembrance and reflection for our communities. Both the Leader and myself are incredibly proud that our council has invested in preserving these important landmarks for both this significant commemoration and for future generations."
The work was funded through the Members’ Policy Choice Reserve budget as part of a wider Spring Clean Plus programme to enhance the appearance of the borough.
The restoration of Pontnewydd War Memorial followed work to clean the cenotaph by local volunteers.
A service to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day will be held at St Gabriel's Church, Cwmbran, at 11am on Thursday May 8. A film of local servicemen and women and their families will be shown. To include photos of your loved ones, please email them to chris.slade@torfaen.gov.uk