Poppyscotland have been in touch to ask us to help commemorate the centenary of the start of the First World War by joining them, along with villages, towns and cities throughout the UK, for LIGHTS OUT on Monday 4th August.

LIGHTS OUT is an invitation to everyone to turn off their lights from 10pm to 11pm on Monday 4th August, leaving on a single light or candle for a shared moment of reflection. LIGHTS OUT will be one of the largest mass participation events of its kind ever seen in the UK, and will complement a candlelit service held at Westminster Abbey.

Inspired by the famous words of wartime Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time.” the hope is that LIGHTS OUT will see one million candles lit at war memorials, community centres and homes in every village, town and city throughout the UK to remember each and every one of those Service men and women who gave their lives during the First World War.

Scotland made a hugely significant contribution to the First World War and there was not a community left untouched by its devastating impact.  LIGHTS OUT is a simple, yet powerful concept that will enable those who wish to join the rest of the UK in a collective moment of commemoration to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, while supporting those affected by the consequences of war today.

Poppyscotland provide vital support for the Armed forces community, both serving and ex-serving, in Scotland. Information about making a donation towards their work is available on their website www.poppyscotland.org.uk

A limited edition Centenary candle costing £4 is available from M&S stores (or online) with all profits going to Poppyscotland.