A WAR memorial that recognises the contribution of both soldiers and home-front civilians has been recognised with a star status.

Rawtenstall War Memorial has been upgraded from Grade II status to Grade II*, putting it among the top quarter in the country.

Rossendale Civic Trust chairman Kathy Fishwick said the upgraded listing was a worthy recognition for the memorial and hoped it would lead to an increase in tourists coming to visit the site.

Mrs Fishwick said: “It’s really good news. It’s a magnificent piece of work. Not only does it recognise the armed forces, it also recognises the people who stayed at home.

“Hopefully, it will lead to an increase in the number of people coming to look at it and a greater appreciation of it.”

The Rawtenstall War Memorial is located in the Rawtenstall Library gardens. It features an obelisk with bronze reliefs beneath, featuring figures including soldiers, sailors, airmen, a farmer, a miner, a nurse, a fisherman, a medical orderly, a railwayman, a labourer and a mother with child.

Rossendale and Darwen MP Jake Berry said: “I’m absolutely delighted. The memorial is unique in that it celebrates the contribution of everyone to the war effort, including farm workers, women and children. I think it is fantastic this has been recognised with a star listing as an important war memorial at the heart of our town.”

In a report by Historic England, a spokesman said: “After examining all the records and other relevant information, and having carefully considered the architectural and historic interest of this case, the criteria for listing in a higher grade are fulfilled.

"Rawtenstall war memorial is therefore recommended for upgrading from Grade II to Grade II* with an updated list entry.

“It is also recommended that its name be changed to ‘Rawtenstall Cenotaph’.”

The trust’s history group has also foundmanaged to locate three memorials deemed lost by the Imperial War museum – Bacup Conservative Club’s roll of honour, Water Primary School’s roll of honour and one frombelonging to Rawtenstall Corporation Tramways.