A COMMEMORATION of a First World War battle which ‘saved civilisation’ was held in the city’s historic Gheluvelt Park.
The annual Battle of Gheluvelt Commemoration service took place at the Gheluvelt Memorial, formerly the Interpretative Feature.
In June there was the 100th commemoration of the opening of the park by the 1st Earl of Ypres Lord Sir John French in 1922. That June service was shortened due to heavy rain even though we have had a hot dry summer.
The service was blessed with good weather and was conducted by Revd Colin Butler MBE. The orders for the military side of the service were delivered by Parade Marshal, John Walters of Worcester Branch WFRA
It was a poignant and solemn service which remembered the sacrifices of the 2nd Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment who advanced on a counter attack that stopped the collapse of the British Forces and the German army reaching the channel ports.
It’s widely regarded the 1914 battle changed the outcome of the First World War. It was noted in a quote by the Worcesters ‘saved the British Empire’. At the end of the service Mayor of Worcester Coun Adrian Gregson gave a speech on the significance of the sacrifice made and the naming of the park.
In attendance was the Vice Lord Lieutenant Brigadier Roger Brunt CBE, the High Sheriff of Worcestershire Andrew Manning-Cox Esq, the Right Worshipful Mayor of Worcester Coun Dr Adrian Gregson, Captain Jones of 4 Mercian Regiment and Captain Fosse of 1 Mercian. The Mercian Regiment`s Mascot L/Cpl Derby XXXII with the Ram Major and Ram Orderly.
The service was organized by and well attended by veterans of the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association.
Also in attendance were The Royal British Legion, various other Regimental Associations and members of the public.
Next years’ service will be on October 29.