Every year the people of Epsom and Ewell mark Remembrance Day to remember and honour those who have served in the Armed Forces. The day takes a more special significance this year, as 11 November 2018 marks the armistice that heralded the end of the First World War.
There have been a number events in the borough already marking this important anniversary.
As well as the normal Remembrance Day wreath laying and civic church services, here are some of the forthcoming activities organised by us or which we have been made aware.
Main Council event:
Beacon of peace and hope
Sunday 11 November from 6pm, Bourne Hall Park
Join us as the Borough takes part in a national chain of beacons marking the end of the First World War and the many millions who were killed or came home dreadfully wounded. The event will also commemorate the huge multitude of men and women on the home front who underpinned the war effort. Bourne Hall will host a small exhibition and there will be contributions by the Epsom Male Voice Choir, followed by the playing of the tune, The Battle of the Somme and the Last Post.
The beacons across the UK will symbolise the light of hope that emerged from the darkness of war.
Other Council supported events:
Opening of the annual Garden of Remembrance
Monday 5 November at 11am, Bourne Hall Park
The Mayor will join local schoolchildren as they open the annual Garden of Remembrance within Bourne Hall Park. At least six local schools are to take part in remembering those who died in conflict. Many of the schools will be performing a short song or poem.
Epsom’s last fallen
Wednesday 7 November at 11am, Epsom Market Place
A small commemoration to mark the death of 32-year-old Trooper Frederick Watkins who was killed in action on 7 November 1918 at Avenses Le-Sec, the last of the 455 borough residents who were killed during WW1.
Journey’s end
Saturday 10 November, 7pm
St Paul’s Howell Hill are hosting an exhibition about Epsom & Ewell in the Great War and screening of the feature film, Journey’s End plus interviews with film producer Guy de Beaujeau and Colonel Bill Baker. Book free places at www.saintpauls.co.uk/journeysend
Community and other events:
Langley Vale Wood - Month of Remembrance
From Sunday 4 November
Explore a special self-guided trail to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War. Throughout the trail you’ll discover fascinating facts about how Langley Vale Wood played an important part in the troops’ preparations for battle, and how the local community were involved in the war effort. Share your reflections at the willow wreath sculpture in the tranquil surroundings of Langley Vale Wood.
Remembrance Day Concert
Sunday 11 November, Epsom Playhouse
The Royal British Legion flagship band holds its annual concert raising funds for the legion.
We Will Remember
Monday 12 November, Epsom Playhouse
Epsom College pays tribute to those who gave their lives in the ‘the war to end war’. The evening is made up of songs, poetry and play extracts which describe the chronology of the war and touches on how Epsom College and the town responded to the conflict. All proceeds from the evening will be given to the Royal British Legion ‘Thank You’ Poppy Appeal.
As Time Goes By
Sunday 18 November at 2pm, St. Michael's The Sanctuary, Ewell
Join the Denman Street Quartet for a musical journey through time from the first and second world wars featuring music by Ravel & Gershwin through to the greats of the Swing era like Glenn Miller, spanning a broad range of musical styles. £1 from every ticket will be donated to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal to help support the Armed Forces Community.
