Page 116 - WW1 - 1918

Remembering Redditch Residents & WW1 Redditch Local History Society

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The Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch Messenger – Saturday 16
November 1918

Peace continued

Peace – News of the Armistice – Spontaneous Outbursts of Rejoicing
Redditch – Immediately the hooters of several factories were heard, the workpeople left
their places, and crowds quickly gathered in the principal thoroughfares of the town. It was
at once noticeable that the feelings of the people were mingled, for many were led to tears,
while others saw in the day a time for rejoicing. Early in the afternoon a procession was
formed at the Council House, and led by the Band and members of the Urban District
Council, proceeded to Church Green West, where an impromptu meeting was held. The
Doxology was first sung, and prayer was offered by the Rev. B. Crosby. Canon Newton read
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the 46 Psalm, and Mr A. C. Millward (Chairman of the Council) gave a brief address.
The hymn, “O God our help in ages past” having been sung, the Blessing was pronounced.
The Band then played “Rule Britannia,” and cheers were given for the Worcesters and
Warwicks. Soldiers on leave and a number of wounded men who were in the procession
were greeted with hearty cheers. – The Band played selections in the kiosk during the
afternoon, and early in the evening a huge bonfire was lighted at the junction of Alcester
Street and Church Green. Flags were flying from hundreds of windows, and streamers were
to be seen in several streets.
On Tuesday few people were at work, the day being a general holiday. The proceedings for
the day commenced with a procession of school children. They were led by members and
officials of the Urban District Councils, two bands, and a number of Boy Scouts. After
parading the principal streets the Band took up their places in the Kiosk, and the children,
carrying flags, assembled on the west side of Church green. Solos were given by popular
vocalists, and the children rendered patriotic songs, now and again breaking out into hearty
cheers and waving their flags, in the latter giving a pleasing effect in the midst of the large
concourse of people who thronged on every side. The Metropoitan Works (Bigham) Prize
Band, gave a programme of music in the afternoon. Soon after 7.0pm. a procession left the
Council House, and proceeded to St Stephen’s Church for the town’s thanksgiving services.

Page: 116 © RLHS 2014