New memorial proposed to honour the contribution of women in times of war and conflict
To commemorate the centenary year of the Cenotaph in Victoria Square, St Helens, a planning application has been submitted for the installation of a new memorial to recognise the vital contribution of women from across the borough during war and periods of conflict.
Article date: 13 February 2025
Submitted by Newton East ward member and current Mayor of St Helens Borough, Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron MBE, the proposal sets out plans for a Portland stone 'Women of War' memorial to be installed within the grassed area alongside the historic Cenotaph in Victoria Square.
The design - chosen to reflect and respect the heritage of the surrounding area - would stand as a dedicated tribute to the women who served on the frontline and homefront alike, supporting war efforts in roles ranging from munitions work and engineering to nursing, communications and civil defence.
The Cenotaph was unveiled in April 1926 following a long fundraising campaign to replace a temporary memorial erected after the First World War memorial to those who lost their lives in. Lots of parishes and districts had erected their own memorials, and an attempt was made to consolidate these into one memorial across towns and villages in the country.
The Cenotaph also bears the names of local armed forces personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the Second World War as well as other 20th and 21st century wars and conflicts - and is the focal point of Remembrance services.
Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron said:
"As we mark 100 years of the Cenotaph in St Helens, it is fitting that we also recognise the often overlooked but extraordinary contributions of women during times of war.
"Their strength, skill and resilience were essential to the nation's war efforts—both on the frontline and at home. This memorial would ensure that their stories, sacrifices and achievements are permanently acknowledged at the heart of our borough. A prime example of this is our first ever woman Mayor, Alderman Margaret Shard, who during both World Wars, worked in munitions and suffered life-changing injuries after covering a volatile package with her bare hands to protect others. Her story is representative of what lots of women did during difficult times and their contribution is priceless.
"I would like to formally recognise and thank the efforts of representatives from St Helens Soroptimist Society, St Helens Inner Wheel, Cllrs Bell, McCormack, Murphy MBE, Greaves and Mussell who have supported the project in establishing the design and location."
The planning application will be considered at a future meeting of the council's planning committee.