Historic event to honour Cheshire Regiment

Don't miss out on the chance to take part in a free historic concert event this weekend to honour the Cheshire Regiment soldiers who gave their lives in their first major battle of the First World War.

The free concert and memorial service is being held at Tatton Park on Sunday (August 24th) to honour the Cheshire Regiment's fallen of the Great War.

People are being encouraged to bring a picnic and attend the family event, which will take place in the beautiful surroundings of Tatton's Old Hall, from 3.00pm.

The commemoration marks the centenary of the Battle of Mons – the first major military engagement by The 1st Battalion of the 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment in 1914 and where the regiment suffered severe casualties.

The Battle of Mons was where the British Army saw its first major action of The Great War – and soldiers of the Cheshire Regiment played a major part in the terrible fighting.

The Cheshires suffered very heavy losses and impressed officers on both sides of the conflict with their bravery and refusal to retreat.

Of the 25 officers and 952 other ranks of the Cheshires present at the start of the battle, only seven officers and 200 men remained alive by the end of the day – and only 40 men from the battalion survived unwounded.

People are encouraged to arrive for the free concert and memorial service from 2.30pm for a 3pm start.

A memorial service will be followed by excerpts from 'Silent Night' and 'Over By Christmas by acting group Theatre in the Quarter, readings from Cheshire East Youth Theatre and a concert by the world-renowned Fodens Brass Band.

Dignitaries will attend several of the Great War's participant nations, including Belgium, France, Germany, India, Australia and Bangladesh.

The event is free – however the usual gate entry fee to Tatton Park applies. Because space is limited, people are urged to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

People are encouraged to bring your own picnics and blankets for seating. Please do not bring dogs or barbeques to the event, as they are not permitted.

The concert is part of Cheshire East's four-year programme of activities, events and development schemes to commemorate the centenary of the First World War – which is called Cheshire East Reflects.

If you would like to promote you community's commemorative events, or get involved, or have stories to share from this period, please visit the Cheshire East Reflects website at: www.cheshireeastreflects.com/

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