South Derbyshire to mark the centenary of World War One
Sacrifices made by brave servicemen and women will be remembered in South Derbyshire to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.
The District is set to commemorate the millions who participated in the war, from the battlefield to the home front.
A new memorial garden is being unveiled at Eureka Park in Swadlincote from 10am on Saturday, November 3. The Heritage Lottery Fund Invisible Heritage project includes raised beds, a memorial tree and two benches to provide a quiet space for reflection.
Swadlincote based Chameleon School of Construction (CSC) used its expertise and skills to support with the construction of the garden for free.
The following weekend, on Remembrance Sunday (November 11), a service is being held at 9.15am at the Hill Street Baptist Church in Swadlincote before The Royal British Legion, 1211 (Swadlincote and District) Squadron ATC and other uniformed groups and guests parade through the town to the Eureka Park Memorial Gates at 10.15am.
A short Service of Remembrance will take place outside of the gates at 10.50am, with the Last Post being sounded and a two minute silence taking place at 11am.
Poppy wreaths will be laid by Cllr Michael Stanton, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, other guests and members of the public. The public can also pay their respects by leaving a cross or Rock of Remembrance in the new memorial garden.
Later in the day, from 6.45pm, a beacon is being lit at the performance area on Eureka Park to symbolise the end to the darkness of war.
Swadlincote’s Town Crier, Karen Bailey, will join 99 counterparts from across the UK and other countries to make a cry for peace, while the Gresley Male Voice Choir will perform harmonies to replicate the outpouring of relief that took place in 1918.
All attending are urged to wear warm clothing, appropriate footwear and to bring a torch.
Councillor Stanton said:
“On the centenary of the Armistice, we’ll unite to give thanks to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and those who returned home to help shape the world we live in today.
“This is a chance to reflect and remember those we have lost and to show our gratitude to those that are serving in conflicts around the world. We shall never forget the sacrifice they made for us.”
Other Remembrance Sunday services are being held in villages and parishes across the District as people remember the fallen.
31 October 2018