Liverpool commemorates Noel Chavasse 100 years on

A special commemoration takes place in Liverpool later this month to honour the memory of Captain Noel Chavasse.

The army doctor, and son of the Bishop of Liverpool, was attached to the Liverpool Scottish and was the only serving member of the forces to receive two Victoria Crosses during the First World War.

He died on August 4, 1917 during the Battle of Passchendaele, after working bravely and tirelessly to rescue and tend to wounded soldiers.

To mark the centenary of his death, a commemorative paving stone is being unveiled in Abercromby Square Gardens on August 29 at 11am. Members of the Chavasse family will join the Bishop of Liverpool, Lord Mayor and army representatives at the ceremony.

It will be followed at 2pm by a recreation of Captain Chavasse’s memorial service at Liverpool Parish Church, 100 years to the day the memorial took place, and will include the original hymns he chose.

Noel Chavasse’s sword will also be on show.

The day will end with a Last Light Vigil at Abercromby Square Gardens at 9pm, held by 208 (Liverpool) Field Hospital.

Noel Chavasse’s nephew Thomas Aidan Chavasse said: “Noel’s life was characterized by duty, service, and above all a deep sense of compassion and care for both the citizens of Liverpool, and for his brothers in arms in the Liverpool Scottish Regiment.

“This August, we both mourn and celebrate his extraordinary life and death, and in particular, his supreme acts of bravery and courage in saving so many lives on the battlefield.”

See Noel Chavasse's medals at the Museum of Liverpool - more HERE.