Devon families invited to share links to WW1

Residents in Devon who have family links to World War One are being invited to share the stories, memories and artefacts that link their family to the war.

It's part of a special anniversary being held to commemorate the beginning of World War 1

A special service to mark this occasion will be held at Exeter Cathedral on Sunday 3 August. The service is open to everyone, but particularly welcome are Devon families with family links to WW1.  The service will begin at 4pm

Those with links to WW1 wishing to reserve seats can email lieuten@devon.gov.uk  with their stories.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Devon said; “The First World War had a profound impact on the people of Devon and of the Nation. It is very important that we remember the enormous sacrifice  made by so many from this county.”

Devon County Council has teamed up with a range of partner organisations, including the Royal British Legion, Exeter City Council, Torbay Council, 43 Wessex Brigade, Royal Navy, Exeter University, Devon Museums Group, Devon Arts in Schools Initiative, Devon Adult & Community Learning, trade union groups and local history societies, to instigate, support and co-ordinate community projects across Devon & Torbay commemorating the centenary of the First World War.

The aim of the 'Devon Remembers' project is to recognise and pay tribute to the sacrifice and contribution that the people of Devon made during and after World War One.

It also aims to bring communities together to discover stories about their past and forge new relationships for the future. As part of this, the Council is keen to capture stories, memories, photographs, research and events data on a project website.

For more details and to get involved, go to the Devon remembers website.

About WW1 anniversary:

From 2014 to 2018, across the world, nations, communities and individuals of all ages will come together to mark, commemorate and remember the lives of those who lived, fought and died in the First World War.

IWM (Imperial War Museums) is leading the First World War Centenary Partnership, a network of local, regional, national and international cultural and educational organisations.

Together, through the First World War Centenary Programme, a vibrant global programme of cultural events and activities is happening connecting current and future generations with the lives, stories and impact of the First World War.