Bedford Borough joins communities across the country this weekend in marking 100 years since the end of the First World War on 11th November 1918.
In addition to acts of Remembrance across the Borough, Bedford town centre is hosting a number of events to mark this centenary.
Friday 9th November sees a Festival of Remembrance at Bedford Corn Exchange starting at 7.30pm; an evening of music, song, poetry performed by a cast of choirs and musicians who are all volunteering their time for an unforgettable evening. All proceeds will go towards the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Tickets are available for purchase from the Corn Exchange.
On Saturday 10th November, all are invited to a multi-faith Service of Thanksgiving at St Peter’s Church at 2.30pm in association with Royal British Legion, Bedford Council of Faiths and The Parish Church of St Peter De Merton with St Cuthbert.
A commemorative bench will be unveiled on The Embankment at 10.00am on Saturday 10th November, opposite the War Memorial. A 24-hour vigil will then begin at 11am on the Saturday 10th November, with volunteers standing at the War Memorial on The Embankment, finishing at 11am on Sunday 11th November. The Remembrance Sunday Service will take place at the War Memorial on The Embankment at 11am.
Finally, a beacon will be lit at the War Memorial on The Embankment joining hundreds of others across the United Kingdom, following a lighting of a beacon by the Queen. Members of public are asked to arrive by 6.45pm, with the beacon lighting scheduled for just after 7pm, following The Last Post.
Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson said “This weekend, we mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, and come together in remembrance of members of the armed forces who have lost their lives in active service. We will also pay tribute to members of the Armed Forces and veterans for their service. Everyone is invited, joining with communities across the country, lighting our beacon and remembering.”
