War Memorial

The war memorial stands on West Lane, Bermondsey, and was unveiled in 1921 to commemorate those who died in the First World War. It was subsequently extended to include the names of those lost in the Second World War. The memorial is built of granite, consisting of a tall column topped with a Corinthian capital, set upon an octagonal base and a ball and flame finial. The column is situated on a square base, 2 metres high, with arched faces bearing inscriptions in lead lettering. The south face reads "THIS MONUMENT is erected to the honoured memory of the men of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe who fell in the Great War 1914-1918 1939-1945.” Above this inscription is a bronze coat of arms representing the former borough of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe. The north face recalls those civilian casualties and members of civil defence and fire brigade services who lost their lives in the community 1939-1945. The east face features the inscription: “WHEN YOU GO HOME tell them of us and say for your tomorrow we gave our today. AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN, and in the morning we will remember them.” Two bronze draped flags, facing north and south, are positioned at the base of the column. The column rests on a square plinth with stepped detailing, and inscriptions on the south face honour those who died in subsequent conflicts. The memorial is enclosed by a granite post and chain fence and is situated at the centre of a paved open seated area alongside West Road. Erected after the First World War, it replaced a temporary memorial of 1920, the architect of which remains unknown. The memorial is a handsome granite column of good design and construction, representing a significant tribute to the sacrifice made by the communities of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe during the two world wars, including recognition of the impact of the London Blitz on the area.