English Heritage has published a guidance document on commemorative plaques, covering every aspect of plaque work, from design to historical research and the gaining of consents.

London's Blue Plaques scheme, which has been administered by English Heritage for around a quarter of a century, is understood to be the oldest of its kind in the world and there are thought to be at least 300 similar plaque schemes across the country.

Such schemes have become popular because of their ability to celebrate history and the historic environment. The document draws on the experience of English Heritage and other administrators to answer the questions of anyone who’s interested in embarking on a plaque project of their own to connect current buildings with their notable past.

Local authorities, civic societies, history groups and other bodies involved in commemorative plaques have all contributed to Celebrating People & Place: Guidance on Commemorative Plaques and Plaque Schemes, which can be downloaded by clicking here.

Emily Cole, Head of English Heritage's Blue Plaques Team, said: "A successful commemorative plaque initiative can be a real asset to buildings, towns and cities.

"We hope that this guidance document, which has been so well informed by many experienced individuals and organisations involved in schemes across the country, will prove useful for anyone seeking more detail on how to go about erecting a commemorative plaque."

Since English Heritage began managing the London-wide Blue Plaques scheme in 1986, it has erected over 300 plaques, bringing the total number to more than 800.

Major cities such as Birmingham, Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester all have long-established schemes.

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