WORK to move a memorial commemorating the 50th anniversary of the end of the Second World War began at the weekend.

Newport council agreed to refurbish the Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan floor memorial, and move it from Commercial Street to the nearby Mariners Green opposite Newport central police station. A report to councillors said that since its installation in 1995 the mosaic had been subject to “unacceptable” levels of damage caused by the high number of heavy goods lorries passing through the area.

Over the years the authority has carried out emergency repairs, which it said were both difficult to carry out and costly, and often meant materials different to the original were used.

The project cost £26,020 – £18,020 of which will be funded through the Pillgwenlly regeneration scheme. The remainder will come from regeneration company Newport Unlimited.

A rededication ceremony is expected to take place once the work is completed later this year.

The memorial designed by Sebastien Boyesen was commissioned in 1995 by Newport Borough Council as a lasting tribute to those who fought and worked for peace during the Second World War.