A MOVING annual service commemorating the soldiers who trained in Fovant during the First World War will return next month.

The Fovant Badges Society Annual Drumhead Service will take place at East Barn, Fovant, on Saturday, July 5 at 3pm, bringing together veterans, residents and visitors to remember those who gave their lives for Britain and its territories during the Great War.

The service holds special significance in Fovant where thousands of troops trained between 1914 and 1918.

Many of those soldiers carved the famous military badges into the chalk downs overlooking the village – landmarks that remain visible today.

This year’s guest of honour and speaker will be General Sir Jack Deverell KCB DL, while the service will be conducted by Reverend Elaine Brightwell.

Organisers said the Drumhead Service is both a remembrance of past sacrifice and a message of hope for future generations, while also highlighting the history and importance of the internationally recognised Fovant Badges.

The event is being held with the permission of the Williams family, and members of the public are warmly invited to attend.

Anyone planning to attend is asked to register their interest by emailing fovantbadgeshelp@gmail.com to help organisers finalise arrangements.

The society’s president, General Sir Nick Parker KCB CBE, and trustees say they look forward to welcoming visitors to the commemorative event.