Lights to go out across Exeter tonight

People in Exeter are being encouraged to switch off their lights tonight to commemorate the start of the First World War, 100 years ago.

As part of a nationwide commemoration, people are urged to turn off their lights from 10pm to 11pm, leaving only a single light or candle for a shared moment of reflection.

Exeter City Council will be putting a light in the window of the Guildhall, which has been at the heart of civic life in the city for over 800 years.

The Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Percy Prowse said: “It’s so important that we don’t forget the mistakes of the past and innovative events like this help us to remember.”

The Lights Out initiative is being organised by 14-18 NOW, the official cultural programme for the First World War Centenary Commemorations and takes its inspiration from a famous remark made on the eve of the outbreak of war by the then Foreign Secretary, Sir Edward Grey: “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time”.

Britain declared war on Germany at 11pm on 4 August 1914 ushering in one of the darkest periods in our history.

Anyone wishing to take part in the Lights Out event should visit  www.1418NOW.org.uk/lightsout for more information.