A MEMORIAL to those who lost their lives serving in war zones has been given heightened protection to join some of the nation's most highly esteemed structures.
The Cenotaph in Brock Barracks has been awarded Grade II* listed status by Historic England placing it among only five per cent of the selected buildings and monuments.
Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens the Portland stone piece is only one of the two monuments around the country which mirror the famous Whitehall Cenotaph.
Sitting safely inside the Oxford Road army base the monument was first unveiled back in September 1921 and was a focal point for the town's Remembrance services for many years.
The extra protection up from Grade II - set to coincide with Remembrance Sunday - is hoped to ensure the memorials and the legacy they represent are better preserved for future generations.
Lieutenant Colonel James Bryant, Commanding Officer 7th Battalion The Rifles who are based at the site, said: "We are delighted to learn that The Royal Berkshire Cenotaph situated at Brock Barracks has been upgraded from Grade II listing to II* listing.
"The Cenotaph is of huge importance not only to 7 Rifles as a unit but also to the general public and this will do more to assure its future.
"It is a symbol of the service of the Royal Berkshire Regiment and a place to remember and reflect on the sacrifices soldiers made not only in the conflicts of the First and Second World War but also to all those that have sacrificed their lives for us all."
To gain a Grade II* a building or monument is deemed to be particularly important and of a more than special interest.
Roger Bowdler, director of listing at Historic England, said: "Lutyens was a key figure in determining how the dead and missing should be commemorated.
"His designs are admired for the universality of their message.
"His pure architectural forms are mute symbols of grief, the simple inscriptions weighted with sorrow.
"These are enduring memorials, which show the power of classical architecture to convey meaning and dignity."
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