A 94-YEAR-OLD man who helped to save Beechams clock tower and building by securing its listed status has been remembered by his family.

The funeral cortege of Jack Graney, from West Park, got special permission to pass the well-known landmark on February 15, in remembrance of how the Second World War veteran helped to save it.

In 1993, after hearing of different plans for the building, including development at the site, Jack wrote to English Heritage, with research into its historical and cultural importance to the community of St Helens.

The dad-of-six later heard back that his efforts had resulted in the building being classes as a Grade II listed building, which is iconic in the town's skyline.

His son Brian Graney, 55, said: “I was really proud of passing the clock tower with dad, he fought hard to save the building and thought it should be marked and I am so glad he managed to do that.

“At the time there was talk about development within the building but that could have ruined its character but thanks to his efforts a symbol of St Helens hasn’t been demolished or developed.

“Thanks to my Dad's efforts Beechams will always be a part of the St Helens landscape.

“I know all of his children, wife Eunice and his eight grandchildren are proud of him, it was a lovely way to remember him.

“It’s great that every time we pass it we can think of his part in saving it.”

Jack, who died on February 2, had been chief buyer at British Insulated Callender's Cables (BICC) in Prescott in his youth, as well as a pilot teacher in the Royal Air Force in the Second World War.