Grime and discolouration on Shepton Mallet's Cenotaph should be left alone to protect the stone, experts have told the town council.

Conservation architect Mark Taylor says the biological growth on the limestone and sandstone monument has now stabilised — and scrubbing it off could speed up decay.

"Repeated cleaning will increase the rate of stone and mortar decay," he said in his official report. "Leaving the biological activity… is in the best interests of the monument."

The advice echoes warnings from conservation specialists Ellis and Co, who cleaned the North Face ahead of VE Day. They also urged caution due to the porous nature of the stone.

Despite appearances, Shepton Mallet Town Council says the Cenotaph is closely looked after. Rangers visit weekly to clear litter, remove weeds, change flags and manage wreaths.

A light clean takes place once a year before Remembrance events. A full inspection by a Chartered Architect is carried out every five years — with the next due in 2026.

The council says it is committed to preserving the memorial's dignity and structure with minimal intervention.

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