Families invited to share links to WW1

Devon residents who have family links to the First World War 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 the First World War.

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 the First World War. 

The service will begin at 4pm.

Those with links to the First World War 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 and 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.