Residents invited to mark the 85th Anniversary of the January 1941 Portsmouth Blitz

Members of the public are invited to come together on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 January to honour the 85th anniversary of the devastating air raids that struck Portsmouth in January 1941.

From July 1940 to July 1944, Portsmouth was the target of sustained bombing during the Blitz. The night of 10-11 January 1941 was the city's worst raid, claiming more than 150 lives and leaving hundreds more injured or homeless. Significant landmarks, including the Guildhall and the Royal Garrison Church, were severely damaged.

Public Commemorative Service in Guildhall Square: 10 January

The community is warmly invited to attend a commemorative service taking place on Saturday 10 January, from 10.15am to 10.45am, at the Second World War Memorial in Guildhall Square.

Led by The Venerable Bob White, the service will include readings and a two-minute silence to remember all those affected by the January 1941 bombings. There will be a selection of readings and poems, alongside a plaque unveiling dedicated to Jean Louth, who campaigned for 27 years to have the monument established to ensure the names of those from Portsmouth who lost their lives during the attacks are never forgotten. The event is open to everyone who wishes to pay their respects.

Weekend of Remembrance at the Royal Garrison Church: 10 - 11 January

Residents and visitors are also encouraged to join English Heritage and The Pompey Pals Charity for a special partnership event marking the 85th anniversary of the First Blitz Raid.

Held at the Royal Garrison Church, Penny Street, the church will be open from 11am to 4pm on both days, with a full programme of remembrance and military heritage activities.

Breakdown of the day (some activities are dependent on weather conditions):

• A Remembrance Service on Saturday at 11.45am, followed by a two-minute silence at 12 noon.
• Historical displays and talks exploring Portsmouth's military heritage - from the First World War to the present day.
• Re-enactors representing periods from the Victorian era through to the Second World War.
• Exhibitions from Pompey Pals, information on the Bombing of Portsmouth, the 85th anniversary of the sinking of HMS Hood, and materials from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
• Performances of period songs by The Fine Voice Chorus, with additional music from The Hampshire Caledonian Pipe Band.
• Support and information from Veterans Outreach Support and Veterans Service Hub, highlighting services available to the local veteran community.

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said: "As we gather to mark the 85th anniversary of the January Blitz, we honour the strength and resilience shown by the people of Portsmouth during one of the darkest moments in our city's history. These commemorations remind us of the importance of coming together to remember, reflect, and ensure future generations understand the sacrifices made."

The weekend offers a meaningful opportunity for people of all ages to reflect on Portsmouth's resilience, commemorate those lost, and learn more about the city's wartime legacy.