Huntingdon’s war memorial, which was sculpted by the wife of polar explorer Captain Scott, has been listed by English Heritage.

The “Thinking Soldier” has been in Market Hill since 1923 and honours all those who have lost their lives in conflicts.

Its creator was Kathleen Scott, who lost her husband after the Royal Navy officer died leading an expedition to the South Pole in 1912.

The statue was unveiled in Huntingdon on Armistice Day in 1923 by the artist. Its new Grade II listing is part of an English Heritage project to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

Over the next five years, the organisation plans to give up to 500 war memorials a year the extra protection of being listed. Other listed buildings nearby include the Grade I listed Church of All Saints, and the Town Hall and the former grammar school, now home to the Cromwell Museum, both Grade II* listed.

Councillor Nick Guyatt, executive member for strategic planning and housing at Huntingdonshire District Council, said: “The memorial has for a long time been the focus for the remembrance of the fallen of this district.

“It is important that the significance of this sculpture, the importance of its artist and the moving and poignant message behind its creation is recognised in this the centenary year of the start of the First World War.”

Mayor of Huntingdon Councillor Bill Hensley added: “It’s a real focal point of the town and it’s a lovely sculpture. It means it will be preserved forever, which is a good thing.”