A free concert and memorial service is to be held at Tatton Park to honour the Cheshire Regiment’s fallen soldiers of the First World War.
People are being encouraged to attend the family event, which will take place in the beautiful surroundings of Tatton’s Old Hall on Sunday, August 24, from 3pm.
The commemoration marks the centenary of the Battle of Mons – the first major military engagement by The 1st Battalion of the 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment in 1914 and where the regiment suffered severe casualties.
Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The Battle of Mons was where the British Army saw its first major action of The Great War – and soldiers of the Cheshire Regiment played a major part in the terrible fighting.
“The Cheshires suffered tremendously-heavy losses and impressed officers on both sides of the conflict with their steadfast bravery and refusal to give ground or retreat.”
Of the 25 officers and 952 other ranks of the Cheshires present at the start of the battle, only seven officers and 200 men remained alive by the end of the day. Only 40 men from the battalion survived unwounded.
Cllr Jones added: “It is only right that we commemorate the tremendous courage and sacrifice of Cheshire’s soldiers and I would urge families to come along and join us for this fantastic and poignant commemorative event. I’m sure it will be a memorable occasion for everyone involved.”
People are encouraged to arrive for the free concert and memorial service from 2.30pm for a 3pm start.
A memorial service will be followed by excerpts from ‘Silent Night’ and ‘Over By Christmas by acting group Theatre in the Quarter, readings from Cheshire East Youth Theatre and a concert by the world-renowned Fodens Brass Band.
The event is free – however the usual gate entry fee to Tatton Park applies. Because space is limited, people are urged to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
People are encouraged to bring your own picnics and blankets for seating. Please do not bring dogs or barbeques to the event, as they are not permitted.
The concert is part of Cheshire East’s four-year programme of activities, events and development schemes to commemorate the centenary of the First World War – which is called Cheshire East Reflects.
If you would like to promote you community’s commemorative events, or get involved, or have stories to share from this period, please visit the Cheshire East Reflects website at: www.cheshireeastreflects.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment