Search light above Brookwood cemetery for Armistice Day

A seachlight will be beamed into the sky above the Brookwood Cemetery in Woking this evening.

It is one of four military cemeteries around the country, taking part in a unique act of remembrance for Armistice Day.

Organised by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the light will be visible for miles around from 7pm.

It is part of their campaign called "Shine On" during a time when gatherings at cenotaphs and war memorials are not taking place due to the pandemic.

It is described by the CWGC as "a symbolic gesture that the light of remembrance, even in these dark times, will never be extinguished."

CWGC’s Director General, Mr Barry Murphy, explained: "For more than a century, we have gathered at the same time on the same day, to bow our heads and think of those who sacrificed their lives for ours, during the two World Wars. But this year’s different.

"Whilst we can’t come together in person, we can still make sure their names burn bright. Not just for one day, but for all the days (and nights) to come. So, this year, on Remembrance Day, we’ll look up to the stars in our night sky to remember those who fell. All 1.7 million of them.

"I would urge the public to join us by choosing to name a star in remembrance of someone and looking up into the night sky at 7pm on 11.11.20 to remember that person and all those who died during the two World Wars. Together, we can make sure their names Shine On."

The other three locations from where the sky will be lit are the CWGC’s Plymouth Naval Memorial, CWGC’s war grave plots at Cardiff Cathays Cemetery and Edinburgh Rosebank Cemetery.

To join CWGC’s Remembrance initiative, visit www.cwgc.org/ShineOn and name a star in remembrance.