THE refurbishment of Aveley’s war memorial looks set to go ahead thanks to the generosity of villagers.

Last year, plans were made to honour Nicky Mason of the Parachute Regiment, who was killed in Afghanistan last September.

Residents also wanted to ensure the names of other fallen Aveley heroes from the Second World War were added to the village war memorial.

The initial cost was estimated at £22,000, but after residents and businesses from the area came forward offering their services for free or at cost, the sum needed is just £5,000.

Aveley councillor John Cowell, who has campaigned for the refurbishment, wants to thank everyone for their help.

He said: “I started the appeal in January with a donation of £100, and my wife Susan donated £250 from a Jack Petchey Award she had received.

“I asked local people and organisations to help fund the project. I would like to thank the Aveley and Kenningtons Community Forums who have donated £2,000 each.

“I have been overwhelmed at the generosity of our residents and local businesses.

“This will enable work to start within the next few months.”

The death of Lance Corporal Mason hit the village hard, and many gathered to pay their respects to him last year.

He was just 26 when he was killed in an explosion, as he tried to protect a power station in Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan.

His name will now join those listed from previous wars.

Mr Cowell added: “Although the names of our fallen villagers from the Second World War have been on record at St Michael’s Church in the village, it is important for their names to be added to the memorial alongside those people who died during the First World War.

“These people are more than just names though, they were our fellow villagers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom in our hour of need.

“They must not be forgotten and obviously local people agree – I would like to pass on my personal thanks to everyone and every organisation who has supported us.”