Gloucester in the Great War

When news of the war broke out in 1914, nothing could prepare the citizens of Gloucester for the changes that would envelop their city over the next four years.

The story of Gloucester in the First World War is both an interesting and intriguing one. The city played a key role in the deployment of troops to Northern Europe as well as supplying vital munitions. Local men responded keenly to recruitment drives and thousands of soldiers were billeted in the city before being sent off to fight the enemy overseas. The city also played a vital role caring for the many wounded soldiers who returned home from the front.

The effect of the war on Gloucester was great. By the end of the conflict, there wasn't a family in Gloucester who hadn't lost a son, father, nephew, uncle or brother. There were tremendous celebrations in the streets as the end of the war was announced but the effects of the war lasted for years to come.

This powerful account of a city that showed great courage and determination in a time of adversity ensures that Gloucester's people, who lived through the four intense years of conflict, are remembered for their immense contribution the war effort.