WAR memorials in Alcester and Henley have been designated protected monuments.
Both have been granted grade II listed status by the government, on the advice of Historic England, to commemorate Armistice Day.
Alcester War Memorial, located at St Nicholas Church, was erected after the First World War as part of the wave of commemoration of the sacrifice made by the fallen from communities across the country. It was unveiled in September 1921.
Names of those lost in the Second World War and Korean War were also later added to the stone cross memorial.
Earlier, in 1919, the 17th century town hall had been purchased from the Marquess of Hertford by public subscription, and named the War Memorial Town Hall.
The memorial at Arden House School in Henley was erected in honour of the school’s 26 pupils who lost their lives in the Great War.
Following the Second World War, a dedication was added to the stone sundial memorial to commemorate the nine who died in that conflict.
Lord Ashton of Hyde, First World War Minister, said: “As we enter the final year of our First World War centenary commemorations, we want to ensure the bravery and sacrifice of those who served are never forgotten.
“Local war memorials are a poignant reminder of how the war affected our communities and of those who never came home. I encourage everyone to visit their local memorial and to learn more about their connection to this pivotal point in our history.”
Historic England chief executive Duncan Wilson added: “These memorials were an important indicator of how society was feeling and reacting as the war progressed and as the loss of life increased to unprecedented levels. They were not just a focal point for people’s grief but also seen as a symbol to those still fighting.”
