A war memorial was given a much needed makeover in time for Remembrance Sunday thanks to the generosity of villagers.

Cambs Times: Unveiling of benches and refurbished Coates War Memorial. The working team, Left: Colin Dale, Barry Colville, Don Rogers and Ron Barratt. Picture: Steve Williams.Unveiling of benches and refurbished Coates War Memorial. The working team, Left: Colin Dale, Barry Colville, Don Rogers and Ron Barratt. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

A year-long fundraising campaign led by village pub The Vine and supported by regulars and local businesses stumped up

£4,000, enabling Coates War Memorial to be refurbished and made wheelchair friendly.

The memorial has been completely re-paved and two benches have been installed.

The Vine landlord Stuart Cross said: “There was a big concrete lump which meant the memorial was not wheelchair accessible and the concrete was cracked, which made it dangerous.

“The renovations carried out, including new block paving, wheelchair access, landscaping and seating has been made possible by the extremely kind commitment and generosity of Coates Village.

“Many individuals and local businesses have unstintingly given both time and finance to make the War Memorial a place for people to visit and reflect with their own personal memories.

“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all concerned.

“The individuals conerned are too numerous to mention, but we list below the local business who have so generously contributed.

“They are Oliver Brooks, D.J. Ping, P.J. Thory, Blinds in Harmony, Sovereign Improvements, A.G. Butcher Builders, S.R.P. Produce Limited, Crown Welding, Jonathan Dale Landscaping and B&G Builders.”

The Coates War Memorial carries the name of 46 First World War and seven Second World War soldiers who were killed in battle.

It was made by Messrs G R Dickens and Son and unveiled on May 6 1920 by Colonel Clayton.