Lights Out (First World War Centenary by The Royal British Legion)

On the evening of August 3, 1914, the day before Britain officially entered the First World War, the British Foreign Secretary, Sir Edward Grey, uttered these words with the premonition that, far beyond of the military consequences, shadows would cover all of Europe and it would remain in darkness for his lifetime.

The Royal British Legion, on the century mark of this anniversary and as a part of the official commemorations of the Centenary of the First World War, are encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10 pm and 11pm on 4 August 2014, leaving only a single light or candle lit as a symbolic act of reflection and hope to mark the 100th Anniversary of the date Great Britain entered the First World War.

Westminster Abbey will be leading the nation with a First World War vigil liturgy which will be broadcast live on the BBC with the hope of lighting one million candles across the UK in remembrance of each and every one of those Service men and women who gave their lives in the war to end all wars.

In honor of, British retailer M&S (www.marksandspencer.com) has made a limited edition Centenary Candle. All profits from their sale will support serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans of all ages and their families and many personalities such as Twiggy Lawson, Louis Smith and David Gandy among others took part in a promotional video encouraging people to participate in this symbolic gesture.