RESTORATION work has been authorised for a West Somerset monument to those who fought in the Far East against Japan during the Second World War.

The Burma Star War Memorial in Blenheim Gardens, Minehead, was officially dedicated 26 years ago at the end of this month.

Ownership of it eventually passed in May of this year to Minehead Town Council while over the years the Burma Star Association’s West Somerset branch membership has been in decline.

Town clerk Ben Parker said little proactive maintenance had been undertaken since the memorial’s installation.

He said: “Even when receiving ongoing preventative maintenance, memorials of this type periodically require refurbishment.”

Mr Parker said the monument was deteriorating and now required restorative work, which had become obvious when council staff cleared soft landscaping around it in August ahead of a VJ Day 80th anniversary commemoration service.

He said the main structure of the monument was generally sound but would benefit from a professional clean, while its inscription, badge, and detailing had faded and needed to be repainted.

Mr Parker said quotations for the work had been received from several stonemasons and war memorial restoration specialists, both local and national.

He said: “Although a brief specification was provided, each contractor offered a slightly amended approach.”

The quotes ranged from £952 to £2,760 and could be met from a monument earmarked reserve fund which the council established in the last financial year to proactively meet maintenance costs.

Councillors heard public concern for the memorial’s condition was expressed by some of those attending the VJ Day 80 commemoration, which was of particular significance to the war in the East and Burma.

They agreed the Burma Star Memorial was showing signs of wear, particularly in the lettering, and refurbishment was appropriate

Councillors authorised Mr Parker to spend up to £1,000 on the necessary restoration work.