The 2007 Devon Festival of Remembrance will be held at the Great Hall, University of Exeter on Thursday November 8, starting at 7.30pm. The festival features the Band of the Royal Marines from the Commando Training Centre, Lympstone. In addition to remembering the fallen of the two world wars and many trouble spots, this year?s festival will focus on the sacrifices of Britain?s Armed Forces in conflicts during the past 25 years. These include the Falkland Islands, Northern Ireland, the 1991 Gulf War and more recently the Balkans, Sierra Leone and present operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Guest speaker will be Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire, a former Chief of the Air Staff. During the Falklands War, he commanded No 1 Squadron RAF, whose Harriers played a prominent part in the success of that campaign. The evening will include the traditional muster of standards of branches from Devon together with representatives of the Armed Forces, youth movements and the emergency services. For the first and possibly last time, 15 Russian veterans of the Arctic Convoys will also be present. Guests of the RBL?s Exmouth lranch, these former sailors will be taking part in various activities associated with the period of national remembrance. Light entertainment will be provided by the Men of Morchard, a men?s singing group from Morchard Bishop performing serious and amusing pieces. The evening will close with the traditional Service of Remembrance, featuring the Chapel Choir of Saint Margaret?s School, Exeter. Tickets at £6 for legion members, £8 for non-members, can be purchased at the Exeter Ticket Office, tel 01392 211080. A limited number may be available at the door on the night. For more information, contact the county secretary on 01392 272211. All proceeds go to the Poppy Appeal.
