COMMUNITIES in Powys only have one year to apply for grants to help preserve First World War memorials.

The Powys War Memorials Project, which can provide grants to repair, restore or maintain World War One memorials in the county, has one year left before the project ends.

The maximum grant available for repair works for one memorial is £5,000 while up to £200 is available to improve war memorial surroundings such as fencing, gates or lighting.

The grants from the project can cover up to 90 per cent of the cost of the work.

Powys Council, which hosts the project, says that any type of established Great War memorial in the county is eligible including stone obelisks, stained glass windows, plaques, statues or halls.

Memorials with additions for other wars are also eligible.

The repair grants are being allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Some memorials were completed in time for Remembrance Sunday including Rhayader Clock Tower, Newtown Memorial Gates and Crickhowell Town Memorial.

Cllr Martin Weale, cabinet member for regeneration and planning, said: “The Powys War Memorials Project marks our respect for those individuals who left Powys sacrificing their lives.

“Memorials form an integral part of our towns, villages and communities and provide a focal point for remembrance. The funding gives Powys a chance to remember and ensure that these memorials are protected and kept for future generations.”

The project has been funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadw and the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority.

It can also provide funding for community training, such as how to research the names on war memorials or how to set up a website to record names on war memorials.

The project also supports communities to develop first World War heritage walks and facilitates community events linked with the conflict.

For more information, email project officer Catherine Pugh at warmemorials@powys.gov.uk

For more information, visit www.powyswarmemorials.co.uk