THE war to end all wars was fought by people from all walks of life, united in the cause of defeating a common foe and creating a better world.

Nowadays, it hardly seems possible that so many were prepared to put their lives on the line for such concepts as God, king and country.

But this was an age of certainties. A kind of fundamentalism permeated society - there was an obligation to fight for one's country.

The conflict of 1914-18 brought immortality to many men who, called from their homes by duty's bugle call, would go on to become household names. Quite a large number have links with Worcestershire.

There was Edward Thomas, one of the Dymock poets, part of a group of bards who would regularly meet up in neighbouring Gloucestershire. Over in Herefordshire, Ledbury's John Masefield might have been a celebrated poet of the sea, yet was still able to find some beauty in the mud of the Ancre.

Bruce Bairnsfather, the celebrated cartoonist who created the "Old Bill" character, also has strong Worcestershire and Herefordshire links.

Although born near Stratford, Warwickshire, he lived variously at Littleworth, Colwall and Ledbury.

Bairnsfather is also renowned for his account of the legendary Christmas Truce, when the soldiers of both sides exchanged gifts near Plugstreet Wood, on the Ypres Salient.

Then there were the bad-soldier-made-good types like Pte Hook in the film Zulu, who suddenly found themselves capable of heroic acts when the time came. Private Tom Turrall, a bomber with C Company of 10th Bn The Worcestershire Regiment, was one such man.

Always in trouble with authority, he nevertheless rescued the very officer who had become his bete noir. This feat of courage took place at la Boisselle on the Somme.

However, the First World War was ultimately fought and won by the ordinary soldiers of the British Empire.

From England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, India, Australia, Canada and Newfoundland they came, eager to take up the quarrel with the Kaiser.

As we know, thousands upon thousands died.

Of these, many have a known grave - but it is the legacy of those who were never found that symbolises the pity and waste of the First World War.

There are two main memorials - one at Thiepval on the Somme, and the other at Ypres - that record the names of all these lost souls.

But it is the Menin Gate on the eastern wall of this Flemish town that has become the focal point of remembrance, and that is where Kempsey man Peter Parker and I find ourselves on this year's Armistice Day.

This is a unique spectacle, its themes being peace and reconciliation. There is a relatively low military presence, although representatives of the armed forces are obviously in attendance.

The theme of the hour-long service is one of remembrance and also gratitude, for the Burgomaster of Ypres invariably refers to the soldiers who came to the defence of his country and now lie buried around his town. There is always a strong British contingent and this year is no exception. The Yprians always warmly welcome the Brits, who are instantly recognisable thanks to the poppy, that universal badge of remembrance.

I look across from the Cloth Hall. There stands Peter Parker, not a young man by any means, but still exhibiting a sprightly walk that belies his years. Peter's also wearing a poppy and I can guess what he's thinking about.

For it's a pretty safe bet that his thoughts concern a certain young man who left Worcestershire more than 88 years ago, never to return.

This is the grandfather he never knew, yet only the day before was just a few feet away ... at rest in Flanders Fields.

FACTFILE: THE WAR RESEARCH SOCIETY

l The War Research Society was founded more than 30 years ago by Alex Bulloch, then a serving Birmingham police officer, and friends.

l It supports the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Normandy Widows and Veterans as well as other charities.

l Tours are planned around an individual's request. The visit to the cemetery or memorial is guaranteed, provided prior arrangements are made with the organisers.

l In accordance with regulations, the War Research Society operates an independent trust fund to safeguard money.

l For details contact Alex Bulloch on 0121 459 9008