Riddle of missing memorial stone in Darwen (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Riddle of missing memorial stone in Darwen

12:30pm Friday 26th October 2012 in News

A PILLAR by Darwen’s Boer War memorial has mysteriously lost its top stone.

Now a councillor says he hopes it can be replaced in time for the Remembrance Day wreath-laying.

The missing top from the pillar, one of four which sit in the iron fence that surrounds the memorial, was noticed about two months ago by Sunnyhurst councillor Brian Taylor.

He said there was no explanation why it had vanished, but work had begun on having a replacement made.

Coun Taylor said he spotted the missing pillar at the Belgrave Square monument while walking to work.

He said: “I noticed it as I was walking past. I had to do a double take.

“I rang the town hall who didn’t know anything about it.

“I think I am the only person who has noticed it.

“Once it was reported, it took ages to get sorted as everyone argued over whose responsibility it was.

“But I have been told it is now being dealt with.”

One of the other stones which surrounds the memorial, unveiled in 1903 to remember those who died in the war from 1899 to 1902, has been removed by council officials so they can model the replacement stone on it.

Coun Taylor said: “I just hope it is back ready for the Remembrance ceremony on Saturday, November 10, when we place a wreath there.

“It would appear that somebody has pinched it, but I don’t know why they would want it.”

Meanwhile, plans for a replica Spitfire to be erected on land near The Green have moved a step closer.

Coun Trevor Maxfield, deputy chairman of Darwen Town Council, said a site meeting was held with representatives from WEC, who had made the replica, the council and the Royal British Legion.

He said: “We are hopeful it will be erected in time for Remembrance Day, but nothing is finalised yet.”