SIR – Plans to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War are increasing in number and complexity as 2014 approaches.

Two problems, however, remain. We lack an overriding national project that would capture the public imagination and, after a £50 million programme of commemorations was announced last October, many questioned the wisdom of “spreading” those commemorations across four years. Surely, they argue, it is the centenary of the Armistice – Sunday, November 11, 2018 – which is truly worthy of “celebration”.

One course of action would address both these concerns. November 11, 2018, will be doubtless be a very special day in this country’s history and everywhere the act of Remembrance will have a special dignity and resonance – and as always, will be focussed around the one tangible link which still connects us as a nation to the First World War – our war memorials.

Directing additional money toward renovation of those war memorials in the most dire straits before November 2018 will achieve two outcomes – when society most needs them, it will have a heritage of clean, readable and safe war memorials to call upon, and it will have maintained the most relevant, accessible and lasting tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

But renovation has to start now.

Ray Thompson, South View Avenue, Brigg, North Lincolnshire