PEBWORTH in Bloom organised a weekend of events for the whole community on Nov 22 and 23 to commemorate WW1. On Saturday afternoon, despite dark clouds threatening rain a large crowd gathered on the recreation field for a service of dedication. They were joined by members of Pebworth Fire Service, of Evesham Sea cadets, of Honeybourne & District Scouts and by descendants of the men who lost their lives in the conflict, who were invited to plant specially chosen birch trees “Grey Ghosts” during the ceremony. A granite plaque was unveiled and this, with an oak bench, was dedicated by Rev Debbie Forman. A minute’s silence followed the Last Post and before the rain started everyone retired to the village hall for tea and cake and to view a wonderful exhibition of photographs & artefacts referring to the period of the Great War. A great deal of interest was taken, particularly in the old photos of the village and of the soldiers who did not return, in the diary which one soldier kept and also in all the entries for the art competition. The children have created some imaginative and poignant pictures under the title “Poppies” – the winners will be announced at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, December 13.

The following evening the hall was once again packed for an illustrated talk “Pebworth in the Great War” - the history of the village was revealed through photographs and humorous and sad tales were recounted. Inevitably the story became darker as soldiers’ deaths were reported, In November 1918, the village experienced a terrible loss when 5 young men were killed within 9 days bringing the total for this small village to 18.

Pebworth in Bloom has received much praise and thanks for, not only organising the commemorative events but also for creating a beautiful seated area for residents, with the birch trees being under-planted with spring bulbs like snowdrops, crocuses and small daffodils. A great deal of time and effort went into the hugely successful weekend and the Pebworth in Bloom committee wishes to express its thanks for all the support and financial help it has received from other organisations.

JENNY McLEISH