A FIRST World War commemoration service was held by the chairman of Wyre Forest District Council at St Mary and All Saints Church, Kidderminster.

Stephen Williams and the district council organised the service, which was lead by The Rev Rose Lawley, to mark 100 years since the outbreak of war.

During the special service, three readings were made by Mr Williams, Mayor of Kidderminster Mike Price and Uwe Schmitz, Burgemeister of Kidderminster’s twinned town Husum.

Mr Williams laid a ceremonial wreath on the town’s war memorial alongside Mr Price, Councillor Fran Oborski, the Polish consulate, and Mr Schmitz who joined Mr Williams in the lighting of the candle for peace.

Mr Williams said: “To be able to lay wreaths alongside our German friends and Councillor Price was very moving and made me proud.

“The service was very worthwhile – it was a really fitting tribute.”

Prior to the service, District Explorers Scouts from the Nakoda Unit were on parade with the district and county standard.

The Polish Community Choir sang hymns during the service, including Marsz Pierwszej, which translates as The March of the First Brigade and Boże coś Polskę, meaning God Save Poland.