A WAR memorial dedicated to workers from Crown Wallcoverings could soon return to Darwen -- but a new resting place has still to be found.

The memorial window and plaque once adorned the canteen at Crown's Belgrave Mill, but since the site was earmarked for demolition they have been in the care of regional volunteer for the War Memorial Trust, Alan Jones, in Rawtenstall.

Mr Jones now hopes to return the memorial to its home town and has the backing of Darwen MP Janet Anderson.

He said: "The trust was contacted by Crown because it was closing the factory and I have had the window and plaque for about four months now. They are dedicated to the memory of members of the workforce at the former Crown Wallpapers factory in Darwen.

"The window commemorates those lost in both the First and Second World Wars. I am seeking a suitable site for them where they may be seen by the people of Darwen.

"Obviously a setting in a public building would be ideal. I feel it is important to remember all those who have given their lives in every quarter of the globe and to preserve the memorials raised in their honour."

Mrs Anderson said: "We clearly do need to find a suitable site for this. Maybe something could possibly be incorporated into the new development proposed for the Belgrave Mill site.

"Otherwise, as Mr Jones has said, a public building would be a good and, probably, simpler option. I do strongly feel, however, that the site needs to be as prominent as possible."

Borough planning chairman Coun Dave Smith said: "Officers at the town hall are looking into where this memorial could go. It is extremely important so hopefully a new home will be found for it soon."

There is also a separate campaign by ex-Crown workers to have some form of dedication to former employees placed on the newly developed Belgrave site when it is built.