Cleaning Bolehill and Steeple Grange War Memorial
Street Clean recently completed cleaning works at Bolehill and Steeple Grange War Memorial, informed by the findings of its structural condition report.
Situated on New Road, near Wirksworth in Derbyshire, the Grade II listed memorial is an important part of the community’s history. Maintaining its appearance and condition helps ensure it remains a fitting place of remembrance for the people it honours.
A century of remembrance
Built in 1925, the memorial was designed by Harry Hopkins and constructed by W. Gallimore and Sons, both of Wirksworth. Funded through public subscription, it commemorates twelve local men who lost their lives in the First World War. A further tablet remembers two men who died in the Second World War.
Its unusual shelter design incorporates an arched roof, decorative wreaths and the inscription “They died that we may live”. Although its surfaces resemble dressed stone, the structure was built using carefully formed concrete blocks and reinforced concrete roof panels.
These details contribute to its architectural interest, while the names recorded inside give it a lasting personal significance for the community.
Cleaning informed by the condition report
The condition report, prepared by Capstone Consulting Engineers, identified maintenance needs alongside recommendations for specialist repairs.
Among its findings were significant moss growth on the roof, vegetation taking root in parts of the structure and debris affecting rainwater drainage. Dense planting and accumulated garden waste around the memorial also restricted access for inspection and maintenance.
The report provided the context for our cleaning work, highlighting why regular attention to these areas matters as part of the memorial’s ongoing care.
Why moss and debris need attention
Cleaning a memorial involves more than improving its appearance.
The report noted that moss on the roof retains moisture, which can contribute to deterioration over time. It can also collect in gutters and rainwater fittings, creating blockages that interfere with drainage and contribute to water ingress.
Vegetation growing from joints and gaps presents another maintenance concern. The report recommended its removal and appropriate repairs to the affected openings to reduce the likelihood of regrowth.
Keeping growth and debris under control supports maintenance by making the structure easier to inspect and helping emerging issues remain visible.
Respecting the memorial’s historic character
Historic structures require an approach that recognises their materials, condition and significance. At Bolehill and Steeple Grange, the moulded concrete details, relief lettering and marble commemorative tablets are all part of what makes the memorial distinctive.
The purpose of cleaning is to support the care of that existing structure. Its age and character are part of its value, and the work needs to be considered within that context.
Our cleaning forms one part of the memorial’s wider maintenance needs. The report also identified separate requirements for roof waterproofing, gutter improvements and specialist concrete repairs, each requiring its own attention.
Supporting ongoing care
War memorials hold a place in community life that extends beyond their physical structure. They preserve names, family connections and a shared commitment to remembrance.
The work at Bolehill and Steeple Grange demonstrates the role cleaning plays within a broader programme of care. Alongside inspections and appropriate repairs, regular cleaning helps maintain the setting and presentation of a landmark built to be remembered.
Street Clean’s contribution supports that ongoing care, respecting both the memorial and the people it commemorates.
