Rye Legion members make trip to Ypres battlefields

Whilst there they took part in the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate at Ypres, which was designed by Rye architect Sir Reginald Blomfield.

The visit was organised by Rye Royal British Legion chairman Colonel Anthony Kimber, who also organised a second trip, on September 4, for the Dymchurch Heritage Group.

Colonel Kimber said: “The Rye party also held prayers in the St George’s Church in Ypres, which is the second British war memorial in the Town.

“After lunches in the famous market square of Ypres, the parties toured the battlefield from the Belgian sector at Diksmuide in the north to the Menin Road and beyond in the south.

“The route enabled the parties to consider the locations of the key battles fought in October and November 1914. These followed the opening battles of the war from Mons to the Marne and then the so-called “Race to the Sea” as the Allies and the Germans attempted to outflank the other by manoeuvring north and westwards in an attempt to secure the Channel Ports.

“Wreaths were laid from Rye, the Dymchurch Heritage Group and individuals including Simeon Beale of Burmarsh.

“Elizabeth Kimber, Rye Poppy Appeal Organiser made the exhortation.

“These were two memorable visits which brought home the large-scale sacrifice in the very early stages of what was to become known as The Great War.“