A SERVICE to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Britain entering the First World War is being held in north Durham.

The memorial will be held at Stanley Civic Hall, at the top of Front Street, on the evening of Monday, August 4.

The bar will be open from 9pm and music from the period will be played by Craghead Colliery Band.

Introductions to the evening start at 10pm and there will be speeches, songs, poems and information about the sacrifice people from the Stanley made during the conflict from 1914-18.

It will last an hour before a period of quiet candlelit reflection.

Derek Shingleton, clerk of Stanley Town Council, which is organising the event, said: “This was the most serious conflict in terms of loss of life and hardship suffered.

“The local council wants to show that it recognises that the First World War was such a significant episode in this area’s history and it a major impact.

“There will be no doubt families around here who lost relatives in the conflict and the council is aware of that.”

Representatives from Durham Light Infantry will be attending and bringing along their standards.

The council has bought 100 candles and 80 will be on sale at £4 each for people to light in commemoration, but people are also invited to bring their own tea lights along to take part in the vigil.

The event is to tie in with the Royal British Legion’s Lights Out – One Million Candles to Remember events, which are being held across the country.

The council is appealing for people to get involved by lending uniforms, pictures, letters and other paraphernalia from the war to form a display, which will run all week.

To find out more or get involved call Mr Shingleton on 01207-299109 or Civic Hall manager Claire Howe on 01207-299110. Alternatively, email info@stanley-tc.gov.uk