Houghton-le-Spring War Memorial

The Houghton-le-Spring War Memorial is located in the south-west corner of the churchyard of the Church of St Michael and All Angels, which is a Grade I listed building. This memorial, made of Portland stone, stands approximately 6 meters tall and is designed in the form of a large pylon. The upper section of the pylon tapers back in four stages to an impressive wheel-head, resembling the cross head of the St Cuthbert cross. The dates 1914 – 1919 are inscribed on either side of the middle stage beneath the cross head, while the phrases "OUR GLORIOUS DEAD" appear on the front and rear of the lower stage. The names of those commemorated are listed in three columns on both the front and rear faces of the pylon.

On the north-west face of the pylon, there is a carved relief of a sailor, about 1.5 meters tall, depicted in profile with his hands resting on the muzzle of his grounded rifle. On the opposite, south-east face, there is a matching figure of a soldier, also in profile, fully equipped with a helmet and carrying his rifle slung over his right shoulder as he walks forward.

The memorial is elevated on a platform, and chains are attached across the faces of the base to hold wreaths and floral tributes.