Summary
First World War memorial, 1922, with later additions for the Second World War.
Reasons for Designation
Cockfield War Memorial, which stands on the village green, is listed at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest: as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on this local community, and the sacrifice it has made in the conflicts of the C20;
* Architectural interest: a simple yet dignified memorial cross.
History
Cockfield War Memorial was unveiled on 7 October 1922 by Mr WH Hustler, chairman of the North Bitchburn Coal Company (the company was the principal employer in the village). The memorial was dedicated by Reverend JW Scudamore in commemoration of 45 local men who died serving during the First World War, many of whom worked at the Gordon House Colliery. The cost of £253 was met by public subscription. Following the Second World War the names of eight men who fell in that conflict were added in 1948.
Details
The memorial stands in a square enclosure on the village green to the south of Front Street. Built of Kenmay granite, it comprises a Latin cross rising from a moulded collar on top of a tapering, octagonal, shaft. The cross shaft stands on the plinth, square on plan. The plinth’s base stands on two steps, the uppermost of which is in granite with a chamfered riser to the front; the lower step is sandstone.
End of official list entry
