A PACKED programme of entertainment and educational events are about to take place as Gala Remembers.

The ambitious initiative marks 100 years since the end of World War I as well as Galashiels’ role in the conflict which claimed the lives of 639 men from the town.

A series of community organisations have come together, led by community group Energise Galashiels Trust, to host the exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, live music, light displays, street art and acts of remembrance throughout October and November.

Alongside the Remembrance activities, there is plenty of entertainment on offer, with the Pavilion Cinema holding a World War I season with films such as the critically acclaimed War Horse being screened.

A World War I themed afternoon tea and dance will be hosted in the Focus Centre.

And the Royal British Legion will provide a WWI cabaret as well as a Festival of Remembrance being held in the Volunteer Hall.

Mike Gray, chair of Energise Galashiels Trust, told the Border Telegraph: “World War I had a devastating impact on towns such as Galashiels, which lost seven per cent of its male population as a result of the conflict.

"However, it also provided a number of fascinating stories which have inspired films, books, research and exhibitions.”

During the run up to Armistice there will also be a number of educational opportunities with four lectures looking at the role of animals, hospitals, and both Canada and Scotland rugby internationals during the war.

Genealogy research will also take place, while primary school pupils will get the chance to learn more about the conflict.

Old Gala House will also host a series of exhibitions alongside other locations in the Borders including Abbotsford House Visitor Centre.

Bill White, chair of Gala Remembers 2018 partnership said: “As part of a respectful commemoration to World War I, Gala Remembers 2018 has a wide variety of events being offered by the various community organisations involved, with the aim that a legacy will be created to continue this project in the future as Galashiels undergoes a major regeneration.”

Community groups involved in Gala Remembers 2018 include Borders Family History Society, Boys Brigade, Energise Galashiels Trust, Ex- Braw Lads and Lasses Association, Focus Centre, Focus Centre Crochet Class, Galashiels Academy and Primary Schools, Galashiels Camera Club, Galashiels Community Council, Langlee Community Choir, Old Gala Club, One Accord Chorus, Royal British Legion Scotland Galashiels branch and Works+.

Other contributors include Abbotsford House, B&Q plc, Ballantynes of Walkerburn, BID for Galashiels, Borders College, Booker plc, Car Parts 4 U, Criminal Justice Team, Gala RFC, Live Borders, McGowan Marketing, Morrison & Murray, Niki’s Bar, Paper Violet, Pavilion Cinema, Salmon Inn, Scotland’s War 1914-1919, Scottish Borders Council, Scottish National Textiles Collection and WSZ Joiners.

Programmes highlighting the various events have now been published and are available from local outlets.