Poppy seeds have been planted in Peasedown St John as part of the national commemorations to mark the start of the First World War in 1914.
A huge number of events and ceremonies will be taking place across the UK to recognise the start of the Great War, in which 16 million people lost their lives.
Village councillor Nathan Hartley said: “We should never forget the sacrifices that men and women before us have made. Because of the bravery and courage of British military personal we can now enjoy so many freedoms today.
“Our right to the freedom of speech, our right to vote, our right to worship, our right to protest and assemble, and our right to an education are basic fundamental human rights that we should never take for granted.”
During World War I, the total number of military and civilian casualties was 37 million, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history.
To recognise this huge sacrifice, the national Real Poppy campaign has been launched, in conjunction with the Royal British Legion Centenary Poppy campaign, to see the UK covered in real poppies during August 2014.
Nathan arranged for the seeds to be planted this week at the southern-end of the village, as residents and visitors enter from Radstock.
He added: “It’s only right for Peasedown St John to be taking part in this national act of commemoration. A number of our residents were killed in conflict all those years ago.
“Our village war memorial, which gives details of those that died, can be found in St John’s Church, Church Road.”
B&NES Council’s Parks Department have also planted poppy seeds in other areas across North East Somerset including Paulton, Midsomer Norton and Keynsham.
