But since the men of Morley laid down their lives, their town's memorial has for long periods been neglected.

Now, however, the Scatcherd Park memorial – one of only two in the country cast in the patriotic image of Britannia – is to be restored to its former glory.

With its upturned shield – signifying that war is over – supported on the head of four lions, the bronze sculpture was erected in 1927 at a cost of £2,500.

Designed by Walter Gilbert, it was considered of such historic value that it was later given a grade II listing by English Heritage.

Over the years however, its gleam has faded.

Now local campaigners have secured £22,000 for a complete overhaul that should see its lustre returned.

Coun Terry Grayshon, who led calls for its renovation along with members of the Royal British Legion, said: "Now more than ever I think it is important that we remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.

"Several hundred men from the area died in the world wars, many of them very young men at that. The significance of this memorial is just as great now as it was in 1927.

"You only have to open a newspaper to see the awful images of war still going on around the world. People are still serving this country."

Standing at 22ft tall, the war memorial is considered one of Leeds's finest and thousands of people attend a Festival of Remembrance there each year.

Initially,the memorial was for men and boys who fell in the First World War – the names of those who perished in the Second were added later. Twelve bronze plaques bear all their names.

The work is set to begin in the next few months.

Funding has been secured from Leeds City Council's South Outer Area Committee.