A bid to clean up a York war memorial 100 years after it was unveiled has been given the go-ahead.

Monday, 21 October 2024 13:13

By Joe Gerrard

City of York Council has approved Network Rail’s application to clean the North Eastern Railway War Memorial, in Station Rise.

When the plans were first revealed in August they were welcomed by York Normandy veteran Ken Cooke, who said it was 'about time'.

He told The Press in August: “It is disgusting. It was getting to the point where I was going to take a bar of soap and do it myself!

“It’s a memorial to the lads who didn’t come home, and it should be looked after. It is there for a very good purpose, so I’m very pleased that they are going to clean it.”

The plans were also welcomed by York Normandy veteran Joseph Wood, who served on a minesweeper clearing mines from the approach to the Normandy beaches.

Speaking in August, the 99-year-old said: “We shouldn’t forget those who gave their lives.

“It should be cleaned as a mark of respect.”

RECOMMENDED READING

YOU’LL FIND MORE ON THIS STORY AND OTHERS AT www.yorkpress.co.uk OR PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE NEWSPAPER ITSELF AVAILABLE SIX DAYS A WEEK AT YOUR LOCAL NEWSAGENT

More from Latest News

Where to Watch Bonfire Night Fireworks Across York in 2025

York is set to light up the skies once again this November, with bonfires, fireworks, and community celebrations happening across the city and surrounding areas.
The Brand New Heavies Announce York Barbican Show for March 2026

Legendary funk and acid jazz band The Brand New Heavies are set to bring their unmistakable sound to York Barbican on Wednesday 19 March 2026.
Extra Show Added for The Next Step at York Barbican After Sell-Out Success

Due to phenomenal demand, an extra performance of The Next Step has been added at York Barbican after the 6pm show sold out within hours of going on sale this morning.
Mayor Skaith's 10-year plan for York and North Yorkshire

A 10-year plan to enable York and North Yorkshire residents to thrive in high quality jobs is taking shape.
The first headline act has been announced for the Live at York Museum Gardens concert series in 2026.

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) will play the gardens on Thursday, July 9.
Yorkshire Carer Speaks Out on Being Underpaid

Yorkshire carer: "It’s financial abuse — office staff got bonuses, and carers got petrol bills."
Adult stuck in baby swing in popular York park

Firefighters had to be called in to help free an adult from a baby swing.
MORE than 10,000 people will be pounding the pavements when they take on the Altra Yorkshire Marathon 2025 this weekend

The Altra Yorkshire Marathon's 26.2 mile challenge on Sunday 19 October takes in York and its surroundings on a flat and fast scenic route which has become a firm favourite among runners and charity fundraisers.