Everyone in the UK is invited to take part in LIGHTS OUT by turning off their lights from 10pm to 11pm on 4 August, leaving on a single light or candle for a shared moment of reflection.
People can take part in whatever way they choose, marking the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War either individually or by attending one of the many events being organised around the country for a collective experience.
In Bournemouth, a candlelit commemoration will be held at The War Memorial in the presence of The Mayor of Bournemouth, Councillor Chris Mayne, from 10pm–11pm. Everyone is welcome to join in shared reflection and readings; and to listen to poetry and music. Anyone wishing to contribute to the event with music and poetry should email: [email protected] or phone 01202 454836.
Council buildings taking part in LIGHTS OUT to date include the Town Hall, Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth Library and the Tourist Information Centre.
The inspiration for LIGHTS OUT comes from a famous remark made on the eve of the outbreak of war by the then Foreign Secretary, Sir Edward Grey: “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time”. Britain declared war on Germany at 11pm on 4 August 1914 ushering in one of the darkest periods in our history.
The Mayor of Bournemouth, Councillor Chris Mayne, said: “The LIGHTS OUT event provides the people of Bournemouth with an opportunity to reflect and remember a poignant time in our history.I am proud that Bournemouth Borough Council is taking part in this national campaign, and I urgeresidents across the borough to participate, by taking part at home or with neighbours, or by joining us at our shared commemoration at the War Memorial. Bournemouth will also remember those who lost their lives with an open air Civic Service on the morning of 4 August at Pier Approach.”
LIGHTS OUT is the headline project of 14-18 NOW, the official cultural programme for the First World War Centenary Commemorations. For details about LIGHTS OUT events in your area you can search the LIGHTS OUT map at: www.1418NOW.org.uk/lightsout.
For information about Bournemouth’s First World War Centenary programme, please visit www.bournemouth.gov.uk/WW1events
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/10/lights-out-lamps-mark-first-world-war-start
