A Cobham architect has won government recognition for his prolific ouput of buildings and war memorials designs, with a number of his structures gaining listed status or an upgraded listing.

Sir Herbert Baker, born in the village in 1862, is famous for rebuilding the Bank of England in London and designing the Prime Ministerial residence Groote Schuur in South Africa.

He was also behind the designs for 113 cemeteries and three memorials on the Western Front, plus 24 war memorials in villages and towns across England.

To commemorate 100 years of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, 15 of his First World War memorials have been upgraded or listed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England.

Rochester War Memorial in War Memorial Garden in the High Street has been Grade II listed. Cobham War Memorial retains its Grade II listing.

Sir Herbert lived at Owletts in Cobham, a National Trust property sometimes open to the public.

The Baker family still lives in the house, where an exhibition features their ancestor’s work.

Michael Baker, 80, Herbert’s eldest grandson, said: “My grandfather’s work is part of many people’s lives – our war memorials hold a very important role in our society.

"He had a skill for making people-friendly spaces – whether they large government buildings or simple village crosses.

“His memorials in France are powerful places, and it is wonderful to see Historic England valuing his work at home too.”