Soldiers' feat of arms is remembered 90 years on

Nine decades after the First World War battle, near the Belgian village of Gheluvelt, tributes will be paid to the heroism of the 2nd Bn The Worcestershire Regiment - in the city park named after the battle.

The day will include demonstrations of equipment and weapons from the period, an insight into conditions on the Western Front, a display from the Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters and a concert by the West Mercia Constabulary band.

Events will be held from 10am on Sunday, in Worcester's Gheluvelt Park. There will also be a remembrance service, conducted by The Rev Stuart Currie, at midday.

Fine hour

"By any standards, the Battle of Gheluvelt was a fine hour in Britain's military history and it's only fitting that we mark its exact 90th anniversary," said Allen Barnatt, the chairman of the Friends of Gheluvelt Park.

"This is a unique and important event marking a significant episode in Worcester's history and we're hoping for a good turn-out by the people of the city, so please join us."

The Western Front Association, Royal British Legion, Hands on History and Worcester City Council are all supporting the commemorative day.

The following day, Monday, November 1, a collection of seldom-seen paintings of the "Woofers" will be on display in the Worcester City Museum and Art Gallery.

The tribute, which includes memorabilia and documents brought in by members of the public, will remain open until Saturday, December 4.

During the First Battle of Ypres, on October 31, 1914, 2nd Bn The Worcestershire rushed about 1,000 yards under heavy fire, before digging in and halting the German advance, at Gheluvelt.

This allowed regiments, which had previously been scattered, to regroup and defend the British frontline along the Menin Road, outside Ypres.

The Friends of Gheluvelt Park is a voluntary organisation dedicated to the maintenance and upkeep of the area. For more information, or to join, call Mr Barnatt on 01905 22534.