THE WORLD’S first two minute silence took place on Castle Street in Farnham in May 1916.

The significance of this was only recently discovered with research carried out by the Museum of Farnham.

To commemorate this centenary, there will be a day of events in the town this Sunday organised by Farnham Town Council and Farnham Maltings.

The day will begin with a procession from Farnham Castle along Castle Street at 10.30am. Marching bands from The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and Farnham Sea Cadets will lead community groups.

After congregating at the bottom of Castle Street, there will be a poignant two minute silence after a short ceremony.

There will also be a performance of music composed by army bandmaster Ben Mason for the event and recited by school children and choir members.

The crowd will then be invited, around 11.10am, to follow the band to the May Day Fair on Gostrey Meadow.

Embracing May Day, this will celebrate spring, with exhibitions and entertainment.

More music will be enjoyed at the bandstand, and dancers will take to the May Pole, just as they did in 1916.

The Great War Society will bring history to life with a re-enactment, there will be displays from the museum, and the Rural Life Centre, and poems of remembrance from members of the public will be exhibited.

Steams rides including a carousel, a coconut shy and petting zoo will keep children entertained.

Light refreshments will be on sale, and fair-goers are invited to take picnics.

There is still the opportunity to submit poems and photos for the display.

Visit Farnham Maltings Facebook page, or the centre’s website on www.farnhammaltings.com for more information.

There is currently a free exhibition at the museum about Remembrance and the first two minute silence.

This runs until October.

Any organisations wanting to take part in the procession should e-mail [email protected]