A CAMPAIGN to restore a war memorial marking the death of 800 soldiers during the First World War is being stepped up.

The memorial was erected by survivors, relatives and friends of the Leeds Pals at Colsterdale training camp, a few miles from Masham, North Yorkshire, in 1935.

But the memorial, now weather beaten and worn, is in need of maintenance.

Efforts are being made to persuade Leeds City Council to ensure the memorial is renovated as a permanent reminder of human sacrifice of the Pals.

The Pals became a familiar site on the march in the Masham area between its one-time railway station on the Tanfield road to Colsterdale.

Among those backing the idea for Leeds to assume responsibility for the memorial is Michael Theakston, president of Masham's Royal British Legion.

"I think it is a very good idea that Leeds council should maintain the memorial. It is very much a part of our local history," he said.