‘Lights Out’ For First World War Centenary

A special event to mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War is set to take place next week.

‘Lights Out’ is an open invitation to everyone acoss the UK to participate in a shared moment of reflection by turning off their lights from 10pm to 11pm on August 4th; leaving on a single light or candle to mark the 100th anniversary of when Great Britain entered the First World War.

This is a symbolic representation of Sir Edward Greys quote: “The lamps will go out all over Europe, never to be relit again in our lifetime.”

Across the country there will be gatherings in churches and around war memorials, however people are encouraged to turn their lights off at home or at work for a few moments.

In Wrexham a candlelit vigil isset to take place at The Royal British Legion in Overton-On-Dee and a service at St Collens Church. Further information on events around the country can be found here.

However for those who wish to have a more active participation, there will be a walk up Moel Famau with Minister for Local Government and Government Business Lesley Griffiths AM and many others for a moment of reflection at the highest local peak.

Kevin Forbes Community Fundraiser said: “We are hoping to create the atmosphere faced by young men in the dark and probably in the rain and wind. I hope it will be a very special experience.”

The torchlight walk to the summit will be lead by Expedition Wise Ltd, a local adventure organisation. Once we are all gathered at the summit all of the torches will be turned off with one candle representing a candle of hope. In the blackness the Last Post will be sounded followed by a period of silence for reflection.

Lesley Griffiths AM said: “I am honoured and humbled to join in the remembrance of more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War.

“The powerful visual symbolism of extinguishing the lights as we reach the top of Moel Famau will mark the centenary of the start of the war today [4 August], and is an important opportunity for us to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

You can sign up to the event via http://www.expeditionwise.com/index.php/lights-out-moel-famau-ch246. There is an online registration and a fee which includes a £10 donation to Poppy Appeal.