PLANS have been unveiled for a day-long commemoration aimed at marking the 100th anniversary of the First World War.
During the 1914-18 conflict, Leigh Road Recreation Ground in Eastleigh was the site of a major clearing hospital for casualties.
Now the green area in the town centre is to play host to Eastleigh Remembers, the event set to take place on September 15 and aimed at paying tribute and raising awareness of the vital role the town played during the conflict.
The initiative will feature re-enactment of a First World War field hospital and vintage military vehicles.
Entertainment throughout the day will include performances from international Dame Vera Lynn tribute artist Diane James, Romsey Old Cadets Carnival Show Band, Hampshire Youth Dance, The Lindy Club Swing Dance, the Spitfires (14th Eastleigh Scout & Guide Band), as well as military services and community stalls, storytelling and face painting.
Bishopstoke resident Dave Hubble has also been commissioned to create an original verse to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.
He said: "I’m delighted to have been commissioned to work on this project. Many people do not realise the role Eastleigh played in helping the many soldiers who were injured in the First World War. This is a great opportunity to raise that awareness."
Leading up to Eastleigh Remembers, Mr Hubble will also host a series of workshops with Eastleigh school children on the theme of the First World War.
The children will be encouraged to write a postcard, featuring a poem or a simple message, to an imaginary soldier or a member of the clearing hospital.
The postcards will be displayed on the day.
The event is organised by the Eastleigh Local Area Committee (ELAC).
Cllr Paul Bicknell, ELAC chair, said: "We are delighted local school children will get the opportunity to work with a professional poet. It will be a chance for them to discover the contribution made by the borough during wartime in a creative, inventive and inspirational way. Eastleigh Remembers is part of a series of events we are planning to pay tribute to and raise awareness ahead of the official commemorations on November 11.”
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t:02380424416
e:maria.zaccaro@dailyecho.co.uk
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