Missing monument finally returning to Shell Corner

Shell Corner in Halesowen was given its name because of the artillery shell that stood there from 1924.

But when the road layout was changed in the 1970s it was never seen again. Now, after years of campaigning, another shell – donated by the Army – is on track to be completed as a tribute to fallen servicemen and women.

It will mark a return of a shell to the area, after one previously stood there between 1924 and 1937 - which is how Shell Corner earned its name.

Councillor Henley said: "The shell is historically important to the area.

"It has time taken a long time to bring back to Shell Corner.

"I have faced a few obstacles along the way, with issues around the design and passing it through the committee.

"I'm delighted that the shell monument will be built."

Councillor Henley has now found a contractor to build a brick plinth which will house the monument, meaning he has been able to set a date for completion.

The shell has been painted by art students at Halesowen College and features silhouettes of soldiers and poppies.

Councillor Henley wants to install metal poppies and barbed wire around the sculpture to enhance the military aspect of the design.

The previous shell mysteriously disappeared after a change to road layouts in the area.

The new one is currently being kept safe at the Fixed Wheel Brewery in Halesowen.

It was donated to councillor Henley by a bomb squadron in Essex, while the art work took several months to complete.

Councillor Henley is still appealing for funding to complete the project and needs an additional £1,000.

Anyone interested in donating can go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/returnoftheshell