A village will have a fitting place to remember its fallen heroes thanks to the restoration of its war memorial.

The monument at Ramsden Bellhouse Remembrance Garden, in Church Road, had fallen into disrepair and been the victim of vandalism.

The 70-year-old memorial had suffered to the extent it was no longer possible to identify it.

But a £34,250 grant from Basildon Council’s community investment fund has helped restore it to its former glory.

The project came after parish councillors found unanimous support from residents for refurbishing the memorial.

Parish council chairman Richard Wellborne said: “For the first time in 70 years the village once again has a visible focal point where the relatives and members of the community young and old can reflect on the ultimate sacrifices that were made in order that we and our families can continue to enjoy our freedom today.

“On the new monument a space has been left for names, however it is hoped these will continue to remain blank for the next 70 years.”

Basildon Council’s community fund, which recently closed, has awarded £497,151 in grants to 17 groups in the last two years.

Terri Sargent, councillor responsible for environment and community, congratulated Ramsden Bellhouse community groups for completing its refurbishment project.

She said: “It is fantastic to see residents getting together to take on a project benefiting the local community, especially one dedicated to honouring the memory of our fallen soldiers and civilians from the first and second world wars.”

The memorial will be officially unveiled at a ceremony on Monday.