Mark Weatherup A CHURCH has appealed to the families of fallen war heroes listed on its memorial to come forward with information on their careers. St Barnabas Church, Snakes Lane Eas, Woodford Green, also wants to add names to the monument in time for a rededication la

Mark Weatherup

A CHURCH has appealed to the families of fallen war heroes listed on its memorial to come forward with information on their careers.

St Barnabas Church, Snakes Lane Eas, Woodford Green, also wants to add names to the monument in time for a rededication later this year.

Deputy church warden Alan Clark said: "Most people who walk by the memorial just see some names on a bit of brass, which is a shame.

"After conducting some research, we discovered three of the men had received major military honours, and now we want to find out more details on the others.

"This will then bring the monument to life as people will know who they are remembering."

The rededication was scheduled for May, after the plinth had been renovated, but work had to stop last week when contractors found the stonework was in a worse condition that expected.

The church has now contacted English Heritage, which manages historic buildings, and is awaiting advice on how to continue without causing further damage.

English Heritage has contributed to the �8,000 needed for the restoration.

Mr Clark said: "The rotten section of the timber cross was removed successfully, however it was feared the stones may break apart if moved as originally planned.

"Work will recommence as soon as possible and a new date for the rededication will be set.

"In the mean time, we will put all our efforts into getting into contact with the families of soldiers."

The Bishop of Richborough is scheduled to take the rededicaiton service and will read out all the names, as well as some war poems.

St Barnabas is also looking to put together a book of remembrance which will be updated regularly and kept in the church.

If you know a serviceman on the memorial or think someone deserves to be listed, email warmemorial@btinternet.com or call Mr Clark on 07958 032129.