A memorial plaque bearing the name of 1,429 soldiers, airmen, and seamen who lost the lives during the First World War was unveiled on Remembrance Sunday.

More than 100 people gathered at The Hammer in Hand, Leavesden, during the afternoon to pay their respects to the fallen.

It was also an opportunity for Daren Norris to unveil four plaques, three of which include the names of all those from Watford who died during the war.

Watford Observer:

Mr Norris has worked for three years to compile the list which he was able to reveal 100 years after the end of the war.

The Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor welcomed the crowd that gathered, before Mr Norris explained the history behind his research.

Two wreaths, provided by Jenny-lou florists in Radlett, were laid before a minutes silence was observed.

As part of the ceremony, 13 year-old Tyler Gullin read out a short poem, The Bloody Hundred, by Paul Hunter, as further tributes were paid to the fallen. His father, Steven, has served in Iraq.

Watford Observer:

The three panels feature all 1,429 names which was funded by Osborne, the contractor working on the M25 Gade Valley project in Kings Langley.

Mr Norris’ story stretches all the way back to the 1970s. While out on a walk along the High Street in Watford with his grandad and brother, they stopped at the Peace memorial monument. Mr Norris’ great uncle, Frederick Norris, born in Watford, was 2nd Battalion in the Bedfordshire Regiment.

Frederick died in France in 1918, aged just 22.

It was while they were in the High Street that Daren’s grandad, Sydney, had an idea that every serviceman from Watford should be remembered together.

Watford Observer:

After finding a picture of his great uncle Frederick in his uniform, Daren began brining his idea to life. He searched museums, graveyards, plaques, and memorials, as well as the Internet and after three years of really in-depth research, he had the details of all 1,429 serviceman from Watford who died during the First World War.

It is now on display at The Hammer in Hand.

The memorial reads: "In memory of the 1429  known Soldiers, Seamen and Airmen of this borough who gave their lives in the service of their King and Country during the Great War of 1914-1918.

"Leaving behind their grieving parents, wives and children over a century ago, they did so bravely in the hope of a better future and that in the face of a mighty tyranny across the sea, we should maintain the liberty we all still freely enjoy in this town today.

"Following three years of unique, independent research by pub regular Daren Norris, this plaque was erected on 11th November 2018  to commemorate the centenary of the Armistice of Compiègne and the ultimate Allied victory  over all enemy forces on land, over sea and in the air. Commissioned by The Hammer In Hand Public House Management and Patrons on behalf of an adoring nation, as a testimony and tribute to their unconquerable valour, endurance, sufferings and devotion. Forever honoured and respected by their fellow countrymen.

"May their proud names be remembered in these streets forever. God bless them, every one."

Watford Observer:

To see a full list of serviceman, contact Daren Norris at darenwaynenorris@gmail.co.uk

No women from Watford were recorded as killed in service during the First World War.