War Memorial In Churchyard Of Church Of St Michael And All Angels

The war memorial in the churchyard of the Church of St Michael and All Angels is a tribute to the men of Finmere Parish who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. It features a stone cross with a raised sword on a double pedestal. The inscription on the 6 o'clock face reads: "TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN MEMORY OF THE MEN OF FINMERE PARISH WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR COUNTRY IN THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918" followed by six names and the phrase "THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE. ECCLUS X[L]1V 14." The 9 o'clock face honors those who died in World War II, stating: "THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE WORLD WAR 1939-1945" with four names and "FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH."

The memorial is located just inside the gateway to the churchyard of the 14th-century Church of St Michael and All Angels, which is also listed at grade II, along with three tombs in the churchyard. Although the exact date of the memorial's erection is unknown, it was likely established shortly after World War I to honor the local men who served and died in the conflict, with names from World War II added later. The memorial was carved by mason J.C. Coles.

The Finmere War Memorial serves as a significant reminder of the sacrifices made by the community and holds strong group value with the listed church and churchyard. War memorials like this one are recognized for their historic and cultural importance at both local and national levels.