More than 100 people turned up for the unveiling of part of a new war memorial in Colne Engaine on Saturday.
Villagers are fundraising to create a new covered memorial in the village’s recreation park.
At the weekend they were able to show the fruits of their labours so far when they officially revealed the new gate through which memorial visitors will pass through.
The gate features a woodcarving of a lone soldier standing by a single grave marked by a cross, and a plaque marking the date of its dedication.
Chairman of the Colne Engaine war memorial committee Spike Townsend said: “The dedication went extremely well.
“It was a wonderful service and the gate was extremely well received.
“The reaction on how it looked has been incredibly favourable and supportive.
“The community has been incredibly supportive too. To get 100 people here over half-term was amazing.
“It’s very much a community project and reflective of the community.”
Mr Townsend also explained what was next on the agenda for the committee.
“This is the first phase of the project so we are still fundraising for the main structure,” he said.
“But having something in place for the 100th anniversary of the First World War is really special.”
Eventually the full memorial will include a covered area for people to view a refurbished plaque of those who gave their lives with benches to sit on inside.
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