Special service remembers 12 unsung heroes
A Remembrance service at Bath Abbey honoured 12 special people from around the Commonwealth who had not been fully recognised for their bravery and fortitude.
The event organised in conjunction with the Royal Commonwealth Society, 44AD artspace and the abbey brought together primary children from all over Somerset and Bath including St Mary’s Primary and King Edward’s School.
Schools across the area studied one of 12 individuals and carried out research culminating in a piece of artwork which has been on display at the 44AD artspace.
Many of the schools involved in this project made contact with individuals who were able to provide more information. For example, St Andrew’s Primary School had a visit from Mark Johnson a relative of John Jellicoe Blair who then took part in the service and met pupils and staff after the event and at the reception.
The service also included contributions from the Military Wives Choir who sang Carry Me and Poppy Red.
During the service 12 representatives from the schools came to the front of the abbey with individual pictures of each of their heroes.
The Last Post was sounded by Jill Brighouse after the silence and Reveille when the West Doors of the abbey were opened to reveal large crowds outside.
Attended by the new Lord Lieutenant of Somerset Muhammad Sadiq and the the Mayor of Bath, Rob Appleyard, the Chartered Trustees of Bath provided a generous grant towards the costs of this event.
Students in uniform from Norland College were present together with the Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University, Sue Rigby, who had provided technical and financial support towards the Order of Service.
The audience included serving officers and members of the emergency services as well as parents, the RCS, members of public and the British Legion.
After the service, representatives from the school together with guests went over to the gallery to view the artwork which included exhibits from primary schools in Radstock, Bath, Bruton, Sparkford, North Cadbury, East Coker and Writhlington.
Each school was presented by the Lord Lieutenant with a Times Atlas donated by Harper Collins as a thank you for taking part.