A war memorial in Watford has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* because of its rarity.

The heritage listing of Watford Peace Memorial, which sits outside Watford Town Hall, has been increased due to its rare depiction of male nudes in war memorial sculpture and the fact it was sculpted by a female artist.

The upgrade means it is now considered to have greater significance nationally. 

Designed in 1928 by the prominent sculptor Mary Pownall Bromet - a former pupil of French sculptor Auguste Rodin - the artwork features three figures known as the Fallen, the Wounded and Victory.

Elected Mayor Dorothy Thornhill said: “We’re pleased Historic England has recognised the significance of our peace memorial, and the new classification of Grade II* means the sculpture can be protected for future generations to appreciate.”

A recent reappraisal of the memorial by Historic England found that from an historic, sculptural and architectural point of view, the memorial is of more than “special interest”. 

The Historic England report recommending the upgrade noted: “The Watford Peace Memorial is a simple yet striking and unusual example. Its high quality bronze sculptures and unusual subject matter further increase its poignant impact.”

As well as the peace memorial, the town also has three Grade II* listed buildings - Little Cassiobury, Frogmore House and The Mrs Elizabeth Fuller Free School.