HUNDREDS of people turned out for a special commemoration in Christchurch for the anniversary of the start of World War One.
The event in Saxon Square on Monday was held prior to a candlelight vigil which started at 10pm for the Lights Out event taking place across the country.
For an hour before the vigil, the commemoration included music from World War 1 played by Christchurch and District Band.
A reading of the poem ‘Lights Out’ written by Edward Thomas was given before the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Denise Jones, spoke movingly about what had led to the start of the war and how it had affected the small town which Christchurch was in those days.
Prayers from Doug Barnett of Twynham Church and Revd John Turpin from Christchurch Priory preceded the Exhortation by Gerry Nunn, chairman of Christchurch Royal British Legion and The Last Post played by Nick Jarvis, director of the Royal British Legion Band.
Following a minute’s silence, Nick Jarvis played Reveille and the lights in Saxon Square dimmed leaving one candle lit in the window of the Mayor’s Parlour overlooking the Square.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article