WITH the First World War Centenary on the horizon Pershore residents are being asked to come forward with information on the Great War.
Trudy Burge, from the Pershore Poppy Appeal Committee, has issued a plea for people to come forward with photographs and details of anyone from the town who served in the Armed Forces for the conflict, between 1914 and 1919.
A tribute website for those who served from Pershore is the aim of the appeal, to stand as a permanent memorial from the First World War.
Trudy has also helped launch a poetry competition for youngsters to mark the remembrance, with the winning poem being read out at a service taking place in the town on August 4 this year.
Entrants under the age of 18 can submit work between eight and 16 lines on the theme of the First World War or more general remembrance.
Sponsored by the Pershore and District Royal Naval Association and Royal British Legion, there will be a £20 prize for the winner and £10 prize for the two runners up.
The runners up will be read at the Pershore Schools Armistice Day service on November 11 this year.
Trudy said: “In all the various Remembrance and Commemoration Services that I’ve attended over the years, nothing has ever
moved me as much as our Pershore school’s service on Armistice Day 2013.
“Both the Royal British Legion and Royal Naval Association are keen to work with the children at every opportunity to help
them to learn about our Armed Forces and the tradition of remembrance.
“If Remembrance Services are to continue, it is important to engage each new generation so that they can take their turn in ensuring that those that paid the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten.
“The words of a child are often the most simple but the most poignant.”
Residents can pass on any information and entries by e-mailing [email protected]. The closing date for the poetry competition is Monday, July 14.
