World War trenches centrepiece of living history community event

Published: 16 September 2016

Reconstructed allied and German trench systems from the First World War were the centrepiece of a range of events to commemorate the Great War.

Re-enactors occupied the Digging In trenches installed at Pollok Country Park. The community event was held to mark the end of the city's Heritage Lottery Funded 'Their Name Liveth for evermore' FWW projects.

Digging In is an educational resource funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund comprising partners Northlight Heritage, Glasgow City Council, the University of Glasgow and Stewart's Melville College.

The afternoon event was part of Doors Open Day activties. It  included displays and presentations showcasing the wide variety of WW1 projects in Glasgow commemorating the centenary of the Great War.

There was also a screening of the 1916 Imperial War Museum film The Battle of the Somme. A compelling documentary of the one of the key battles of the era, showing authentic battlefield footage. In addition, a battlefield blacksmith demonstrated his craft.

Lord Provost Sadie Docherty who leads the city's rolling FWW commemoration programme, said: "I enjoyed seeing all the great projects that people have been involved in to raise awareness of the First World War. They really were fascinating and truly brought home the impact and consequences of this global conflict.

"One of my priorities has been that young people learn about the Great War and I've been really impressed at their interest in and passion for these projects. Nearly 200,000 men left to fight for king and country and more than 18,000 did not return. This event helps make sure 'their names liveth for evermore'."