THE CENTENARY of the ending of WW1 will be marked in Menston with a series of special events beginning this weekend.

Anyone with memorabilia from the war is being asked to bring them to St John’s Parish Room for a digital archiving project.

Oxford University, in association with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, has launched Lest We Forget - a project to digitally archive items such as letters, notices, photographs, cigarette cases, buttons or dog tags. On Saturday, November 3 from 10.30am to 12.30pm people are being invited to bring their memorabilia to the parish room, where they will be digitalised. Family history will be recorded with the participant’s agreement. The artefacts will be added to the national on-line archive which is to be made available later this year.

A spokeswoman for the church said such items, together with the family history, told a hugely important story, but were in danger of disappearing.

She said: “ It is vital that this material is saved, not just for posterity but also to engage future generations. Please come along and share your memories and memorabilia, no matter how small or large. Refreshments will be served during the morning.”

At 7.30pm on Saturday, November 3 St John’s welcomes back the Follow the Fleece Company with its latest production To End All Wars to be performed in church.

The performance will use poetry, drama, contemporary accounts and music, including songs specially written for the show.

Previous productions by the Saltaire-based company have been well received with its particular blend of documentary and artistic productions. Tickets are £12 and include a glass of wine or soft drink in the interval and are available from the Parish Office on 01943 872433.

Menston Parish Council and Menston Churches are inviting people to join them outside Kirklands on Sunday, November 11 at 10.45am for the annual traditional service of Remembrance. Part of Main Street will be closed from Cleasby Road to Park Road from 10.15am to 11.30am. Vehicular access to Kirklands during this time will not be possible. Sound will be relayed into Kirklands where seating will be provided for those unable to stand outside. Donations are welcome towards the work of Help for Heroes.