A seafront war memorial with a dramatic history has been listed by the Government.
The Boer War Memorial, near the pier, is one of 17 to be given the protected status by Ben Bradshaw, Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to coincide with Armistice Day on Wednesday.
The four metre high memorial, made
out of polished pink granite, was unveiled in 1903 in memory of the 51 Hastings men who died during the Boer War (1899 to 1902).
According to the Observer, the unveiling was unrehearsed and so the procession was "detached and straggling," and guest of honour General
Sir Leslie Rundle was received in surly silence.
The memorial had to be dismantled in 1974 after being struck by lightning, but was rebuilt and rededicated in 1976.
Ray Osborne, chairman of The America Ground and White Rock Business Group, welcomed the MP's decision.
He said: "We are delighted to hear that the Boer War memorial on the promenade behind White Rock Beach has been listed.
"This is a timely reminder of the importance of honouring those who have fought for our country over the years and to respect and protect monuments dedicated to them.
"This particular memorial is an attractive feature of the America Ground and White Rock area and we are proud that it sits in front of an incredibly rich and interesting architectural mix in this historic part of Hastings.
"English Heritage tell us that they are considering the listing of a number of buildings in our area and we welcome this attention at a time when the re-launching of the America Ground story is taking place."
There are 70,000 war memorials in the UK according to English Heritage, which recommends which ones should be listed.
Roger Bowdler, head of designation for English Heritage said: "War memorials are a focal point of many of our towns, cities and villages.
"They are poignant witnesses to the tragic impact of world events on our towns and villages - many possess high visual interest as well as clear historical resonance."
Is this a good step for the town? Are people in the UK, and Hastings in particular getting better at remembering and recognising the sacrifices of the past? Leave your comments below.