Work to restore Johnstone’s war memorial has been applauded as a councillor claimed it has “made one hell of a difference” to the area.

The historic structure, which features a bronze statue of a kilted soldier, has stood in the town centre since it was unveiled in 1924.

The monument in the town’s Houstoun Square underwent specialised cleaning, which saw it return it to its former condition ahead of a centenary ceremony held last month.

Councillor Iain McMillan, Labour group leader and representative for Johnstone South and Elderslie, commended the work at the recent infrastructure, land and environment policy board.

The politician, who attended last month’s ceremony, said: “On another Johnstone issue, it’s great to see the war memorial in Houstoun Square cleaned up and it was done well in advance of the service that was just held recently to mark the 100 years.

“It’s made one hell of a difference there, it really has.”

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People gathered at the memorial on Friday, May 10, to mark 100 years since it was unveiled and pay their respects to the fallen.

Among those who joined local elected members in attending the event were Provost Lorraine Cameron and Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire Colonel Peter McCarthy.

Condition surveys have been carried out to assess if works are needed to restore the other monuments across Renfrewshire.

These are now being reviewed by Renfrewshire Council officers and action plans will be created for any future works.

A report to the board explained: “The Johnstone war memorial in Houstoun Square underwent specialised cleaning to restore it to its former condition.

“Neighbourhood services commissioned condition surveys to identify future works required on monuments. This report has now been completed and encompassed all 14 monuments, including the Paisley Cenotaph.

“Neighbourhood services colleagues are reviewing the condition surveys and creating action plans for future works based on this report.”