Llanelli MP Nia Griffith Commemorates World War 1 In Amiens Cathedral

Llanelli’s MP Nia Griffith has recently attended the service in Amiens Cathedral to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of Amiens, a pivotal battle in WW1 which began on 8^th August 1918.

Ms Griffith, who also serves as Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary, was representing Her Majesty’s Opposition at the event, which was also attended by Prime Minister Theresa May, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and political and military leaders from around the world.

The Battle of Amiens, which began 100 hundred years ago last Wednesday, was the first of a series of successful offensives by the Allies that ultimately led to the end of the First World War.

Nia Griffith MP said:

“It was a privilege to visit the magnificent Amiens Cathedral for this very moving service. There were some very poignant readings from the letters and writings of those who were involved in the Battle, including those tending the many wounded and dying.

“Some 2,000 guests attended in total, including many descendants of those involved in the battle and representatives from other European nations, Australia, Canada and the US. It was an important opportunity to remember those who fought and died in the service of our country, and reflect on the immense sacrifices made by people from all over the world during WW1.

“The Battle of Amiens is seen as a turning point in the First World War. It was the start of the Allies’ Hundred Days Offensive that led to the signing of the Armistice. This year, when we commemorate the centenary of the Armistice, Remembrance Sunday happens to fall on the 11th of November itself, the very date that it was signed in 1918.

“In addition to the usual service at the Cenotaph in London, there will be a procession of 10,000 and a special commemorative service in Westminster Abbey. Here in Llanelli, we have an interesting series of commemorative events taking place in Llanelli town and the Ffwrness Theatre, as well as the usual Service of Remembrance in the grounds of the Town Hall.

“I would encourage everyone to attend some of these events, and take the time to reflect on the horrors of the First World War and remember those who lost their lives.”