THE SACRIFICES made by the many during the First World War were remembered in a poignant evening of events in Evesham.
About 170 people made the solemn journey to the bandstand in Abbey Park on Monday (August 4) evening for a remembrance service and to light a candle in memory of the fallen.
The event saw residents of all ages pay their respects alongside representatives from Wychavon District Council, Evesham Town Council, the town’s Royal British Legion and local churches.
Guests spontaneously laid their candles at the foot of the war memorial in memory of those lost, to to ensure a striking line of candles.
Poems, reading and prayers were read by dignitaries such as Evesham Mayor Coun Charlie Homer who shared the tale of 22-year-old Evesham man Shedden Jones who lost his life in 1916.
The emotional service was opened and closed by a piper while the Last Post was sounded as a mark of respect.
The evening of events to remember 100 years since the outbreak of the Great War also including a special First World War centenary dinner at the Evesham Hotel.
A large number of Vale residents also heeded the call to turn their Lights Out between 10pm and 11pm.
The rallying call, set up by 14-18 NOW, WW1 Centenary Art Commissions, asked people across the country to turn their lights off for one hour and leave a solitary light or candle on.
At 11pm on August 4 1914 Britain declared war on Germany, ushering in one of the darkest periods in our history.
In tribute, the Observer removed the pictures of our newspaper from our social media channels for one hour and replaced
them with a solitary candle.
Jenny Davis, Wychavon’s Arts Development Officer, said: “We were so pleased to see so many people taking part in Lights Out, not just in their own homes, but also at the commemorative event in Evesham.
“It was a beautiful with all the candles lit and the lighting of the war memorial was perfectly timed at 10pm to the strike of gongs.
“It’s important that we never forget those who were lost.” she added.
Community groups, schools, parish councils and other local organisations can still bid for funding for projects to remember the outbreak of the Great War.
Call Tracy Grubb on 01386 565168 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.
Candles were placed at the foot of Evesham’s War Memorial and in the shadow of the Bell Tower. (s)
Coun John Smith was one of many dignitaries to light a candle to remember the fallen. (s)
