WORCESTER will be at the heart of one of the country’s largest programme of events to mark 100 years since the First World War.

Exhibitions, parades, concerts and remembrance events will be held across the county throughout the four-year centenary, which begins in August.

The Great War commemorations will look back on the role of the Worcestershire Regiment at the Battle of Gheluvelt in 1914, as well as charting the success of efforts on the Home Front and the impact the conflict had on those who didn’t serve.

The mayor of Worcester, Councillor Pat Agar, has been at the forefront of planning for the events, chairing a steering group which has met over the last three years to discuss how best to commemorate the conflict.

“No-one in Worcestershire was untouched by the First World War,” said Coun Agar. 

“From the men who fought on the front to the women, children and older people who kept our county running amidst the horror of conflict – all witnessed change as never before.

“This programme of events will allow us to recall their experiences and see the impact they still have on our lives today.”

Among the highlights already confirmed for next year is an Outbreak of War exhibition at The Hive between July and September; a Soldiers’ Biographies exhibition at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum from July to December; and an enhanced Gheluvelt Day service, including a parade, at Gheluvelt Park in Worcester on October 31.

One of the leading lights in ensuring Worcester is well represented during next year’s commemorations is Lord Faulkner of Worcester, who is a member of the government’s First World War centenary advisory board.

And he said the city and the county were at the forefront of events marking the hundredth anniversary.

“The whole country will be marking the centenary of the First World War, but I am delighted that Worcestershire is pulling out all the stops to create one of the most impressive programmes of events to be found anywhere in the UK,” he said.

The centenary programme is a joint effort between a number of organisations, including Worcester City Council and the neighbouring district councils.

A new website – available at ww1worcestershire.co.uk – is launched today featuring details of all events confirmed so far.