Sep 02

New Nurses’ Bench placed

The Somme weather takes its toll on our Memorials. After a long period of adorning our site, the Nurses' Bench showed such wear and tear that replacing it was inevitable. The new bench that takes it place will keep the memory of thee brave women alive and provide visitors an... read more →
Aug 11

George Heron – Another Friend we lost

George Heron, a founding member of the Friends of Lochnagar, passed away on 23 March 2025 aged 86. He died in hospital with his beloved wife Pat at his side following a short illness. He was a big man with a big heart and a personality and character to match.... read more →
Jul 12

July 1st Ceremony – Solemn but hot

July 1st 2025 was a hot, sunny day. Just like that fateful July 1st 109 years ago. But this time, there was no massive explosion and when the whistles sounded, there were no men climbing out of their trenches and over their parapets to venture into No Man's Land. Today,... read more →
Jul 10

Renovation Walkway nears completion

In the past few months good progress has been made on the renovation of the walkway around the crater. With just 30 meters to go, we may say we are now entering the final stage of the renovation. If the weather holds up, the renovation will be completed well before... read more →
Oct 21

Plaque Team Update

Time for another note from the Plaque Team. With only a few new sponsorship requests in the winter months following the ceremony in November 2023, we decided to forego our usual trip to install plaques in the Spring. However, we are delighted to report that new sponsorship requests soon gathered... read more →
Oct 21
Mar 13

The Friends’ Working Weekend 2024

The Working Weekend this year falls on the late May Bank Holiday, from Friday, May 24th to Monday, May 27th. As we say every year, all are welcome, and whether you wrestle with brambles or chat with visitors, everyone who comes along has an equal part to play in the... read more →
Mar 13

The Somme Battlefield Pipe Band

Anyone who has been at the Lochnagar Crater on July 1st will know of our deep appreciation and friendship with the Somme Battlefield Pipe Band. For many years, they have been a mainstay of our ceremony, with the lone piper often walking ghostlike out of the mist at the beginning,... read more →
Mar 13

Complicated work ahead on the walkway

Replacement of the walkway continues, and our excellent local builder, Arnaud Delescluse, has now completed the path up to the edge of the raised section in front of George Nugent’s cross. The next 20 meters or so are very complicated as he must follow the contour of the ground while... read more →
Mar 13