To mark the end of World War One in 1918, a two minute silence was held in Swanage, Dorset, to remember all those who had died.
The short Armistice Day service, led by the Swanage and Studland team rector Ian Bird, took place at the war memorial overlooking Swanage Bay on Monday 11th November 2024.
Leading the service (left to right) Incoming chair of Swanage RBL Steve Westwood, Swanage and Studland team rector Ian Bird, and Swanage and Studland assistant curate Natalie Davies
End of World War One
World War One came to an end when an armistice was signed between the Allied forces and Germany at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
That moment is now commemorated every year around the world, including in Swanage.
The ceremony started just before 11 am with prayers, before the Last Post was played and a two minute silence observed.
Also taking part in the service for the first time was the Swanage and Studland assistant curate Natalie Davies, who took up the new role in July 2024 after moving to Swanage from Cambridge.
The service started just before 11 am
The Last Post was played
A two minute silence was observed
The Kohima Epitaph
“When you go home,
Tell them of us and say:
For your tomorrow
We gave our today.”
Steve Westwood takes over as chair of Swanage RBL while Steve Churchill takes a well deserved back seat
New chair of Swanage RBL
It was the last Armistice Day service for Steve Churchill as the chair of Swanage Royal British Legion, who after seven years, is handing over to Steve Westwood.
Steve Westwood, who is also a member of Swanage Coastguard, has been learning the ropes as vice-chair for the last year and he’s already planning for the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8th May 2025.
Serving our country
80th anniversary of VE Day
VE Day marked victory in Europe by the Allies at the end of World War Two in 1945.
The Royal British Legion is planning a nationwide day of celebration, including encouraging everyone to eat fish and chips, due to the fact that they were not rationed during the war.
The organisers say this will be a tribute to the fishermen who continued to fish the seas and the farmers and landgirls who worked in the fields – it’s certainly the type of celebration that will go down well in Swanage!
Wearing a poppy with pride!
Watch the Swanage Armistice Day service
Further information
- More about VE Day 80
- More about Swanage Royal British Legion
