A village's war memorial that has taken three years to come to fruition is almost complete.

All the main building work has been completed for Colne Engaine's War Memorial by builder village resident Dom Casey and now there is only the laying of the new memorial stone and the stain glass windows left to do.

The initial idea for the war memorial, which remembers those from the village who died serving during both world wars, was suggested in 2013 and it has taken three years of planning and raising £26,000 to reach this point.

Chairman of the project, Spike Townsend, said: “We are really pleased with how it looks.

"We are extremely proud and extremely grateful for everyone's support and commitment to the project.

"This is a fantastic achievement by everyone, especially the committee and those who have supported us from the beginning - the architects and those in the church and parish.

"Alongside the £26,000, we have also raised £7,000 for local causes, such as for the Essex Boys and Girls Club and the village's youth club."

The new memorial has been built in St Andrew's Churchyard, Colne Engaine.

There will be an official unveiling of the memorial stone on May 7 at a Public Dedication Service.

About 50 people are expected to attend, including many VIPs such as the project's patron Field Marshall the Lord Walker of Aldrinham and the Bishop of Colchester The Right Reverend Roger Morris, who will lead the dedication service.