BRENTWOOD Council has joined the national Lights Out campaign to mark 100 years since Britain entered World War One and is asking others in the community to do the same.

‘Lights Out’ is an invitation by the Royal British Legion for everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on Monday, August 4, leaving only a single light or candle as a symbolic act of reflection and hope.

The inspiration for the event comes from a famous remark made on the eve of the outbreak of war by the then Foreign Secretary, Sir Edward Grey: “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time”.

Britain declared war on Germany at 11pm on August 4 1914 ushering in one of the darkest periods in our history.

The council’s community committee chiar, Councillor Karen Chilvers, said: “This is a poignant opportunity for remembrance of the First World War and the sacrifice service men and women made.

“We are proud to be taking part in ‘Lights Out’ and between 10pm and 11pm on August 4, a single lit window will be visible at the front of the Town Hall.

“It is a simple but symbolic act and we hope that our residents will join us by leaving on a single light in this shared moment of reflection on what was a significant moment in the history of our country”.

This project complements a candlelit vigil at London’s Westminster Abbey, being held at the same time. Volunteers for the Royal British Legion are also organising gatherings locally.