Local News
Beacon’s lights switched off to mark outbreak of WW1
ONE of the region’s brightest landmarks will lose its striking illuminations as Redcar & Cleveland Council marks the outbreak of the First World War.
The Redcar Beacon will be one of many prominent buildings that will be plunged into darkness, save for one light or candle, as part of the national Lights Out initiative.
Nearby council buildings, Redcar & Cleveland Leisure and Community Heart, the Palace Hub and Kirkleatham Museum will also observe Monday’s one-hour light curfew, from 10pm.
Olwyn Peters, the council’s cabinet member for culture leisure and tourism, said: “When Britain declared war on Germany it ushered in one of the darkest periods in our history.
“Lights Out will take place exactly 100 years after that momentous occasion and is a time for a shared moment of reflection.
“People can take part in whatever way they chose either individually or by attending one of the many events being organised around the country for a collective experience.”
Residents are being urged to take part too and the Royal British Legion has launched a campaign for at least one million candles to be lit across the UK.
The event is organised by 14-18 NOW, the official cultural programme for the First World War Centenary Commemorations.
Inspiration comes from a famous remark made on the eve of the outbreak of war by the then foreign secretary, Sir Edward Grey, who said: “The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime.”
Nationally millions of people are expected to participate in Lights Out and hundreds of national organisations have already pledged their support.
Iconic buildings such as the Houses of Parliament, the Imperial War Museums and Tower Bridge will be joining the Beacon in the initiative.
For details about other Lights Out events visit www.1418NOW.org.uk/lightsout
