ST ANDREW’S Church, Stratton, will host a service in commemoration of the end of the First World War on November 11, at 4pm.

Robert Varley is organising the commemorative service, which will mark the signing of the armistice on November 11, 1918, and honour the lives of those who fought and died during the Great War, from 1914 to 1918.

Robert said: “About four weeks ago it occurred to me that Stratton needs to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the signing of the armistice. The usual Sunday service at the local war memorial is not enough for this auspicious occasion and I thought that a mixture of sombreness and celebration was appropriate that anyone could join in.

“There will be a donation plate with the money being given to the Royal British Legion, but the main aim is to reach as many local people as possible for a good old sing-song interspersed with some reflection.”

The service will feature traditional songs from the era, along with poetry and a reading from a report in the Western Times published in November 1918. The service programme includes Roses of Picardy, In Flanders Fields, Pack up Your Troubles, It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Futility by Wilfred Owen, a hymn, reading from St John’s Gospel, 1914 The Soldier by Rupert Brooke, Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now, sermon written by ‘Woodbine Willy’ during the war, Remembrance Sunday prayer, Nellie Dean, For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon during which the names of the men from Stratton who died will be read out, the Lord’s prayer, Keep the Home Fires Burning, Rule Brittania and the National Anthem.

Two semi professional singers, Lisa Pressnell and Pauline Kent, will also be joining the service, singing a solo each and also being involved in other items. Readers will be local.

Robert hopes the community in Stratton will show a willingness to play a part in this unique anniversary.