World renowned violinist, Sophie Rosa, will perform at Exeter Cathedral together with The Exeter Symphony Orchestra and Exeter Philharmonic Choir to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

Titled Semper Fidelis, the June concert will commemorate the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives, including the 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment, who fought one of the fiercest battles of the First World War.

The event, which takes place on Saturday 16 June at Exeter Cathedral, is being organised by ABF The Soldiers’ Charity with the kind co-operation of Exeter Cathedral. The event will be compered by David Fitzgerald from BBC Radio Devon.

Hamish Munroe, Musical Producer for the concert said: “This concert in the majestic surrounds of Exeter Cathedral will remember and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in the First World War. This year marks a very important anniversary and we are pleased to be marking this in the South West with such a special evening. The incredible courage and sacrifice of the 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment will be especially commemorated with this event.” 

The 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment fought one of the fiercest battles of the First World War at the ‘Battle of Bois Des Buttes’ on 27 May 1918. In all, 29 officers and 552 other ranks of the 2nd Battalion, the Devonshire Regiment, were killed or captured. The battalion significantly delayed the German advance, giving the French and British time to arrange ad hoc defences that brought it to a halt a week later. In recognition of their courage and sacrifice, they were awarded the Croix de Guerre by France, the first such award given to a British regiment. This insignia is still worn to this day on the uniform of The Rifles Regiment.

The 2018 concert will raise funds to support the charity’s work with soldiers, veterans and their families across Devon. 

Tickets are available online from Exeter Cathedral Booking Office: www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/tickets