Jul 01

Opening Speech, 1 July 2011

WELCOME...BIENVENUE...WILLKOMMEN Good morning ladies and gentlemen. I would like to welcome you to this, the 33rd annual remembrance ceremony at the Lochnagar Crater. First, as always, a thank you to the wonderful Friends of Lochnagar who have... read more →
Jun 20

The Lochnagar Crater Cross Appeal

The original Cross was erected in 1986. Made from ancient pine rescued from a deconsecrated church in northumberland, it was struck by lightning soon after it was erected. It did well to last until 2010 and was replaced in 2011. The original cross was installed in... read more →
Jun 18

Losing the cross was a very sad moment, however our thoughts were with Richard and what could be done to help. I put forward suggestions to Richard and once he had looked at all eventualities the go ahead was given, and the search for a specialist wood yard began. The... read more →
Jun 03
Jun 01
Jul 01

2010 Ceremony

 When this lousy war is over Rachel and Jennifer sing 'When this lousy war is over' at the Lochnagar Crater Memorial Ceremony held on 1st July 2010 Abide with me Rachel and piper at the Lochnagar Crater memorial ceremony, 1st July 2010 At the start of the ceremony Richard... read more →
Jun 02

Collecting Osborne Medals

Recently I bought two Osborne Victory medals on ebay, both named to W. Osborne, with consecutive numbers 2509 and 2510, and both in the Sussex Regiment. The vender offered no more details. At the... read more →
Jun 01

Karl Kirchner

Karl was a farmer and served as "Kanonier" (Gunner) in the 2nd Regiment, 2nd Bavarian Foot Artillery, IInd Mobile Replacement Battalion, 2nd Recruit Training Depot (according to his military service book). Life on the Front 1918... read more →
May 12

George Nugent

On 31st October 1998 whilst walking round the Crater, at the far side from the entrance, Mr Drage of Colchester noticed what he thought might be the remains of a soldier, emerging from... read more →