On the afternoon of Saturday 10th November, 2018 Staindrop Remembers WW1 held an event in Scarth Memorial Hall to mark the Centenary of the End of WW1. There was an exhibition of stories of some of the two hundred and twenty five men and women from the village who served in the war. Also available to view was a scrolling list of those who served accompanied by music from the well known hymn ' I Vow to Thee My Country' which was projected onto the cinema screen. Our thanks go to Wendi Blair who created this for us.
The children of Staindrop Primary School responded to the request for input by producing a beautiful and meaningful display of the many ways they had interpreted the occasion; there was everything from decorated biscuits to poetry and lots more in between. Thank you to Steve Whelerton and his staff for their input.
On a side table we had a display of memorabilia loaned to us by families of those who served. In particular we had many items from the family of George Harold Richardson, who had served in the Navy. These included medals, a navy shirt, cap bands from each of the vessels he had served on as well as photographs and other documents relating to his naval career.
The occasion was also arranged to unveil a new memorial plaque to the Fallen to be placed at the top of the staircase in the extension to Scarth Hall, which was built by public subscription in the 1920s. It was a pleasure to invite Lord Barnard to visit the exhibition and unveil the new plaque.
After the unveiling, refreshments by Town Hall Farm (courtesy of the Parish Council) were served as we listened to a quarter peal being rung on muffled bells in Staindrop Church, arranged for us by Helen Scott.
A truly memorable occasion for all who attended and a fitting tribute to the men and women of Staindrop who served so honourably in the Great War.