This weekend’s county Remembrance service in Newport is set to be a poignant and historic occasion, featuring a deeply symbolic tribute that bridges the present with the Island’s wartime past.
In a moment expected to stir powerful emotions, the Last Post will be sounded on a silver bugle once carried into battle by the Isle of Wight Rifles during the Gallipoli campaign of the First World War.
The bugle, steeped in history, was used by Bugler Major Reginald Frank Peachey, who served with the 1st Battalion Isle of Wight Rifles.
Dore: The backstory to this is incredible
Isle of Wight Council chair, Councillor Ian Dore, who has helped coordinate the tribute, shared the remarkable story behind the instrument.
He said,
“The backstory to this is incredible. With the family’s gracious permission, the Isle of Wight Lieutenancy has had it on loan for some time.
“We had hoped to use it on Armed Forces Day, but due to illness, that wasn’t possible. Ahead of it going on display, we’ve found the perfect moment to honour its legacy at the county Remembrance event.”
The backstory
The bugle was originally presented to the 1st Battalion by the officers and men of the 2nd Battalion before their departure from the Island.
It was carried into battle by Major Peachey, who was wounded while sounding the advance, his silver bugle catching the sunlight and drawing the attention of Turkish snipers.
Fortunately, Peachey survived his injuries and returned home to the Island, where he later became manager of the Waverley Hotel in Carisbrooke. He had been educated at Barton Boys School and passed away in 1952.
Dore: I expect many will feel goosebumps when it sounds
Councillor Dore added,
“I can’t think of anything more humbling than to hear the Last Post played on a bugle that was used in the First World War by one of our own.
“It’s made even more remarkable by the fact that Bugler Major Peachey survived sniper fire and made it home.
“This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Isle of Wight Rifles’ involvement in Gallipoli, and this tribute carries real significance.
“I expect many will feel goosebumps when it sounds.”
The bugle will later be placed on public display at the Museum of Island History at Newport Guildhall in February as part of a Gallipoli anniversary display. But first, it will sound once more in St Thomas Square, Newport, during this Sunday’s Remembrance event.
County Remembrance Service
The County Remembrance Service will take place in St Thomas Square, Newport, on Sunday 9th November, organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Civic Office in close collaboration with the Royal British Legion Newport and Carisbrooke Branch and Newport Minster.
This year the format for the morning has changed with attendees being asked to gather at the war memorial from 10.25am for a 10.45am start. A full marching parade will follow after the service. Anyone wishing to lay a wreath should arrive early and make themselves known to the parade marshal.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
