Statement from Town Mayor of Ellesmere Port on Storm Franklin

As a result of Storm Franklin, a cenotaph outside an Ellesmere Port church, Elim Pentacostal Church on Worcester Street, Westminster ward has been badly damaged by a fallen tree.

Gales of up to 60mph have been battering the area, and Cheshire West & Chester Council Highways & StreetCare teams have been clearing debris.

Town Mayor of Ellesmere Port, Councillor Lisa Denson, said: "Like everyone in our community, I am devastated to see our Cenotaph destroyed by a falling tree during Storm Franklin. I am in touch with Cheshire West & Chester Council who are organising the removal of the tree.

“I am also working with other local councillors and our MP, Justin Madders, to consider options for restoring the cenotaph. I understand local people will want to know what is going to happen in the weeks ahead, it is an important symbol which remembers those who gave their lives so we could be here today.”

Ellesmere Port & Neston MP Justin Madders, concludes:

"It is awful to see, hopefully it won't be long before it's reinstated."