ONE of the largest battles during the First World War will be remembered in Herefordshire.

To mark the 100th anniversary since the Battle of the Somme started there will be a special service in Hereford Cathedral.

The battle started on July 1, 1916 in northern France and on the first day alone 19,240 British soldiers lost their lives.

It was one of the bloodiest days in the history of the British army.

On the eve of the start of the battle 100 years on all are welcome to attend the service to reflect on the events of 1916.

Canon Andrew Piper, the Precentor of Hereford Cathedral, said: "At the end of June, a century will have passed since the beginning of the Somme offensive, and it will be a fitting time for us to gather to acknowledge before God the service and sacrifice of so many people from our county.

"Those 19 weeks of fierce warfare undoubtedly changed the course of history and it is right for us to pay tribute to all those who had to bear the enormous human cost."

The Lieutenancy and Herefordshire Council are encouraging towns and villages throughout the county to commemorate the occasion in ways which are fitting and appropriate in the context of this significant battle.

The service at Hereford Cathedral is on June 30 at 5.30pm and will take the form of choral evensong and will be attended by the Lord-Lieutenant.

No tickets will be needed.