THE memorial to Thornaby's First and Second World War soldiers has been awarded listed building status.

The sculpture, which stands off Acklam Road, was given grade II status after being commended by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport as being an "eloquent witness to the impact of tragic world events on this community".

The design and high quality of the sculpture were cited as the reasons for it being granted the status.

Councillor Mary Womphrey, Stockton Borough Council's cabinet member for arts, culture and leisure, said: "The war memorial has stood proudly in Thornaby since 1921 and is a well-loved symbol of the town's sacrifice in two world wars. Being named as a listed building reflects its importance."

An earlier accolade for Thornaby's tribute to its war dead was sent by the District Inspector of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission about the war graves in Thornaby Cemetery.

It read: "I should like to take this opportunity to pass on our thanks for the high standard of maintenance afforded to the war graves plot situated on section O.

"The ground staff are doing a first-class job and I should be grateful if you would pass on my comments to them."