Restored World War One memorial returns home

A World War One memorial painting has been returned to its original home following an extensive restoration process.

Amber Valley Borough Council said the triptych - an artwork created on three panels - was now back at The Grammar in Heanor, Derbyshire, after being repaired by conservators.

The artwork, which commemorates 57 former pupils of Heanor Secondary School, who lost their lives in the conflict, was created by British artist Frederick Cayley Robinson and was first dedicated in 1923.

The council said the work was removed from The Grammar for "its own protection when the building fell into disrepair" but has now been returned as the building has been renovated.

The former school had largely stood empty since 2013 but was reopened as a community building earlier this year after being taken over and restored by the council with £8.6m of government funding.

Conservators said the artwork was in a "poor condition" when it was first assessed with paint loss and damage from damp but it had now been carefully restored.

Councillor Chris Emmas-Williams, leader of Amber Valley Borough Council, said: "This is a really important moment for Heanor and for Amber Valley. This triptych is not only a significant piece of art, but a lasting memorial to the young men from our community who lost their lives in the First World War.

"We know many people have been waiting to see its return, and we're incredibly grateful to the conservators and installation team for the care, skill and dedication they've shown in bringing it back to life.

"We are proud to see it returned to its rightful home, where it can be appreciated by current and future generations, and where the stories it represents continue to be remembered."

The council said it would be holding a rededication event in the near future.

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