ABOVE: Our artisan at work – April 2026. Photo: FK for Christ College.

At War Memorial Conservation Co., we take great pride in helping to preserve the historic fabric and stories behind Britain’s memorials. It was therefore a privilege to be entrusted with the restoration of the First World War memorial tablet at Christ College, Brecon.

Following the successful restoration of the Second World War tablet in 2025, the college turned its attention to ensuring the WW1 memorial received the same level of care and attention. Supported by generous contributions to the Chapel and Heritage Fund, this important project could move forward with confidence.

BELOW: The tablet seen in 1926 – T O Scudamore Collection. Christ College Archive. 

Our work focused on the careful cleaning and re-lettering of the 57 names inscribed on the tablet. Each letter was meticulously restored to ensure clarity and longevity, respecting the original craftsmanship while bringing renewed legibility to the memorial. Alongside this, we undertook detailed re-gilding, which has revived the tablet’s original visual impact.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was revealing details that had become obscured over time. The engraved school seal – mirroring the design of the Chapel’s East window – is now once again clearly visible, along with the dedication to the “Old Boys who gave their lives.” These elements are central to the memorial’s meaning, and restoring them was a responsibility we approached with great care.

ABOVE: The tablet after the intricate restoration work – April 2026. Photo: Christ College.

The completed work has brought both the WW1 and WW2 memorial tablets back to a condition that closely reflects how they would have appeared when first unveiled in 1924 and 1954. It is always our aim not just to conserve, but to honour the original intent and dignity of such tributes.

Projects like this are only possible through collaboration and shared commitment to heritage conservation. We are grateful to have worked alongside Christ College and to contribute to the safeguarding of these important memorials for future generations.

Information and photos courtesy of Christ College. See the original post.

ABOVE: The magnificent war monument was meticulously cleaned and renovated by our master craftsmen.

We are honoured to have restored the oak Pontrhydyfen War Memorial. This project required an incredibly intricate restoration process, using precision tools and highly skilled methods carried out by experienced professionals dedicated to preserving the plaque’s historic character.

The team is delighted to have helped ensure that this important symbol of remembrance can be appreciated for generations to come. See below the full restoration and unveiling ceremony held in Neath Port Talbot in November 2025.

ABOVE: We documented the entire renovation process including the presentation ceremony.