Sandy’s World War I Commemorations
One hundred years on from the outbreak of the First World War, we are all connected with this significant event. Some of us are connected through our own family histories, and the heritage of our community but all of us are influenced by the impact this war had on the world and on the society we live in today.
Communities across the world are participating in commemorative events and Sandy is no different. In August 2014 there will be a commemorative service and parade to mark the outbreak of the war. A plaque marking the centenary will be put up near our public war memorial and an interpretation board will also be installed in Bedford Road. The RNBL (Sandy Branch) will be spearheading the commemorations but other groups and local schools are also marking the occasion in some way. If you would like us to advertise your event please contact us with details.
Local Events
Sandy Royal British Legion Parade Sunday 3 August 2014
Sandy Royal British Legion are holding a parade to commemorate the start of the First World War and those who gave their lives during this dreadful time in history.
10.00am - Muster in Swan Lane
10.30am - Parade from Swan Lane to War Memorial on Bedford Road for unveiling of Centenary plaque
10.45am - Parade to St Swithun's Church for Church Service, Bedford Road to High Street via Bedford Road Roundabout
The parade concludes at St Swithun's Church.
Sandy Royal British Legion Lights Out Monday 4 August 2014
The Royal British Legion is encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on 4 August 2014 – leaving only a single light or candle for this symbolic act of reflection and hope.
Sandy Royal British Legion will be meeting at the War Memorial on Bedford Road to remember more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War. Members of the public are welcome to bring their own candles along.
See the following link for more information about this event: www.britishlegion.org.uk/remembrance/ww1-centenary/lights-out
Sandy and the Great War Tuesday 4 November 2014
Talk from local historian and author Steve Fuller about different local aspects of the Great War. This will include stories about the many men who joined up and who came from Sandy and the surrounding villages and about the many that were never to return. We will also hear about the home front and the local Bedfordshire Regiment.
It is poignant to point out that Sandy was then a large village of 3,330 souls and by 1918 it lost 126 men in the War to end all Wars.
Venue: Sandy Baptist Church Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy at 7.30pm.
Cost: £5.50 per person Space is limited and booking is advised.
You can find out more about other centenary events and about the history of the First World War by visiting these sites:
First World War Centenary Partnership
Government World War Centenary
Imperial War Museum
BBC World War I Centenary