Brighton’s War Memorial has been rededicated during the annual commemoration of the Battle of Boar’s Head.
The Mayor of Brighton & Hove hosted the event on Tuesday 30 June following the recent work to improve space and access to the memorial as part of the Valley Gardens project.
The work means it is no longer isolated and can now be a shared space for remembrance and reflection for everyone in Brighton & Hove.
The rededication was followed by an annual service to commemorate the First World War Battle of the Boar’s Head, fought on 30 June 1916, which resulted in the deaths of 366 men from the South Downs Battalions of the Royal Sussex Regiment.
Picture: Mayor of Brighton & Hove, Councillor Theresa Fowler leading the rededication service
The service was led by the Archdeacon of Brighton & Lewes, The Venerable Martin Lloyd Williams, and the Mayor’s Chaplain, Reverend Tom Holbird leading prayers, with Major General John Moore-Bick CBE DL, representing the HM Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex.
It included a blessing of the Battle of the Boar’s Head memorial plaque, which has been restored and reset within a new stone as part of the public space improvements. Funding from the Sussex Freemasons has also paid for new flagpoles situated at the north of the memorial site.
Mayor of Brighton & Hove, Councillor Theresa Fowler, said: “I’m honoured and proud to rededicate the Brighton War Memorial, restoring it as an accessible space at the heart of our city for reflection and remembrance.
“The new space ensures we remain connected to the memories of those who gave so much.
“As we commemorate the Battle of the Boar’s Head, we remember their sacrifice and reaffirm our commitment to unity, compassion and peace for future generations.”
This annual service commemorates the First World War Battle of the Boar’s Head, fought on 30 June 1916 as a diversion ahead of the Somme. Despite heavy bombardment, German defences remained intact, resulting in devastating losses for the South Downs Battalions of the Royal Sussex Regiment.
With 366 men killed and over 1,000 wounded or missing many from Sussex communities the day came to be known as “The Day Sussex Died,” leaving a profound and lasting impact on our city.
Councillor Amanda Grimshaw, Armed Forces Champion, said: “The rededication of the War Memorial and new placement of the Royal Sussex Regiment Memorial marks a significant milestone in the history of our city and in our remembrance of the widespread losses endured during the First World War.
“For decades, this overwhelming sacrifice remained largely forgotten and unrecognised. Yet it was our poorest working-class communities who bore so much of the burden.
“Today we commemorate not only here in Brighton & Hove, but across Sussex. The consequences were felt not only on the battlefield but in homes, streets and workplaces for generations afterwards.”
Ian Smith from the Royal Sussex Veteran Regimental Association, said: “The Royal Sussex Regimental Veterans Association may have dwindling numbers, but our members remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that the sacrifice of these men is never forgotten.
“Our Brighton branch is honoured that those who gave their all are remembered and acknowledged today.
“We are also honoured to be joined by Royal Sussex Regiment standard bearers from across Sussex. We thank them for their attendance and continued commitment to remembrance.
The recent work as part of phase 3 of the Valley Gardens project has included:
Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “The new space public space is a big improvement and reconnects the War Memorial to those wishing to stop, remember and reflect.
“No longer isolated in the middle of a busy road, and with new landscaping and flowers on the way at the Old Steine, it means remembrance events like this one can be held in a space more fitting to the occasion.”
Toby Pratt, Community Engagement for the Sussex Freemasons, said: “I am proud that Sussex Freemasons have supported and contributed to the supply, installation, and dedication of the new flagpoles at the Royal Sussex Regiment Memorial on the Old Steine.
“This important project reflects our enduring commitment to recognising and honouring the service, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served in our Armed Forces, while helping to preserve the proud heritage of the Royal Sussex Regiment for future generations.
“Through these valued partnerships, Sussex Freemasons are helping to provide practical, material, and emotional support to young people, serving personnel, veterans, and their families.”
An exciting weekend of free community events for the entire family is planned to celebrate Armed Forces Day.