A GROUP of Ribchester residents have pledged to raise funds to build a war memorial in the village.

The newly-formed Ribchester War Memorial Association is aiming to raise between £10,000 and £20,000 in memory of the 22 soldiers who lost their lives during both world wars.

The Church of England dead are currently commemorated separately in St Wilfrid’s CE Church, with the Roman Catholic soldiers remembered on a plaque at St Peter and St Paul’s RC Church in the village.

Liz Wilkins, secretary of the group, said: “At the moment these brave men are separated and it’s about time that they should be together.

“They fought together, died together, and they should be remembered together.

“If anyone came to the village, they would have to visit both churches to see all the names and that should not be the case.

“With the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War next year, it’s very important to get this sorted.”

Father David Foster of St Peter and St Paul’s said: “I have no objection to a new memorial at all.

“It’s a much needed thing and it will be good for the village.

“It’s right that the soldiers should be remembered together.”

Peter Ridge, the sacristan and verger at St Wilfrid’s, said: “I don’t know how anyone could have any objection to a plan like this.

“People who come to the village should be able to easily see all of the names of the brave soldiers who lost their lives.”

A public meeting was due to be held today at 7.30pm at the Ribchester Sports and Social Club to discuss the project.

To donate to the Ribchester War Memorial Fund, you should e-mail ribchesterwarmemorial@outlook.com