War Memorial In Churchyard Of St Marys Church

The war memorial stands in the churchyard of St Mary’s Church, Bentworth, and was erected in 1920. Constructed from Doulting limestone by Messrs. Noon and Company of Guildford, it commemorates the men of the parish who died in the Great War and subsequent conflicts.

The memorial comprises a four-step base supporting a tapering octagonal shaft set on a small square plinth block. A moulded ring decoration is present at the base of the shaft and again at the base of the slightly floriated Latin cross which tops the monument. A dedication to those who fell in the Great War (1914-1918) is inscribed on the top west-facing step, along with four names in alphabetical order, including that of Lt. Col. Neville Elliot-Cooper VC, DSO, MC. Further names are inscribed on panels facing north and east, with five names displayed on each panel, also in alphabetical order. A second dedication, remembering those who died in 1939-1945, appears on the third step, with three names inscribed on panels facing south east and north.

The decision to erect the memorial followed a parish meeting on 7th February 1920, and it was dedicated on 28th November 1920 by the Rev. AG Bather, unveiled by Major General Jeffreys CB, CMG, of Burkham. The war memorial has historic significance, reflecting the community’s connection to wider events. It holds group value with St. Mary's Church and the Hankin family tomb within the churchyard.