It was on these dates 100 years ago that Europe’s powers clashed and set in motion a chain of events that would change the course of history across the whole globe. Guildford is set to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War by hosting several events across the borough, lest we forget.
On 28 June 1914, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in the capital of Bosnia, Sarajevo and after a month of heightened tensions, an escalation of violence and political manoeuvring (commonly known as the July Crisis), Austria-Hungary finally declared war on Serbia on 28 July 1914. Within two days, both Germany and Russia had mobilised their troops and by August 3, Germany had declared war on three of its major European counterparts; Russia, France and Belgium, before Britain on August 4 had no other choice but to declare war on Germany. The rest as they say is history…
Commemorative services and events will take place throughout August in the borough to mark the outbreak of the war, including educational and cultural activities.
- There will be local commemorative events taking place at the weekend or on Monday to mark the centenary of the outbreak of war including services and exhibitions in Guildford, Burpham, Normandy, West Clandon, Stoke, Stoughton and Worplesdon.
- A service to mark the centenary of the outbreak of war will take place at Guildford Cathedral on Monday 4 August 2014 which will start at 10pm and will last for about an hour. The Earl and Countess of Wessex will attend the vigil and it will include music and readings relating to the First World War. Some of the words used will be those of men and women of Surrey who fought in the war or were personally affected by its course.
- Everyone in the borough is invited to join the rest of the UK and take part in supporting LIGHTS OUT by turning off their lights from 10pm to 11pm on 4 August, leaving on a single light or candle for a shared moment of reflection. Lights will be turned off at the Guildhall (just one lantern lit outside the front), Guildford Castle, Guildford House Gallery, Tunsgate Arch and the Council’s Millmead offices.
- A rededication service will take place at Ash War Memorial on 10 August. On 12 August there will be a commemorative flight and ride of motorcycles, followed by a ceremony at St Mary the Virgin Church, Send. A World War one themed village fete is taking place in Glaziers Lane, Normandy, on 25 August.
- A special ceremony for a new commemorative paving stone will be taking place at Tunsgate Arch on Sunday 24 August. The stone commemorates Captain Francis Grenfell, exactly 100 years to the day after he was awarded a Victoria Cross for gallantry in action at Andregnies in Belgium. This is part of the nation’s programme of remembrance with commemorative paving stones in the birthplaces of Victoria Cross recipients from the First World War. Captain Grenfell was born at Hatchlands, East Clandon.
- A new walk, the Guildford Great War trail, has been put together for residents and visitors to explore some of the town centre’s sites that were significant in the First World War. Look out for more information on this shortly.
- First World War exhibitions are on at Guildford Museum and Guildford House Gallery. You can also visit the special commemorative First World War flowerbeds (as pictured above) on display in the Guildford Castle Grounds.
Lead Councillor for Environment, Cllr Matt Furniss has said,: “Commemorating the First World War is an important part of our history. It marks the sacrifice many made for the UK and Guildford. We have been working with community and faith groups, parish councils, local venues, individuals and other organisations in commemorating the outbreak of the First World War in the borough. The services and events provide the opportunity for local people to remember the lives of those who lived, fought and died in the Great War”.
As well as marking 100 years since the outbreak of war, residents, businesses and local groups are planning special events and activities throughout the four-year centenary period from 2014 to 2018.
Adds Cllr Furniss: “We are co-ordinating and promoting a number of activities locally. We are keen to hear about your plans, so that Guildford residents can mark this important period”.