A WAR memorial plaque stolen after being in the same spot for 90 years will cost £7,000 to replace.

The bronze plaque, prised off the memorial overnight on July 29, listed the names of war heroes who died in the First World War from Christ Church, Neston Road, Willaston.

Michael Coyle, 39, of Mellock Lane, Little Neston, will appear before magistrates on October 28 charged with handling the plaque.

But, with Remembrance Day just two weeks away, schoolchildren at Willaston CE Primary School, Neston Road, Willaston, have stepped in to save the day.

War veteran Fred Chapman, 90, president of the Willaston-in-Wirral Royal British Legion branch, has been instrumental in trying to raise funds to replace the landmark. A coffee morning was held on September 17 to raise funds.

He said: “It’s quite an expensive business. We’re getting help from different sources.

“Back in 1921, when it was made, lots of places could make plaques like it but now there are only about three in the country.

“The pupils at Willaston junior school have printed the names out and decorated them with poppies. It should look very good and should fit the occasion.”