SOUTHWICK REVIVAL’s IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE – 7/8 JUNE
TOP SECRET WOODLAND 21st ARMY RE-ENACTMENT
Visitors to the Southwick Revival in Hampshire this coming weekend will
have the opportunity to participate in a new and exciting immersive
experience deep in the woods on the Southwick Estate, a short bus ride
from the village.
On the exact spot in nearby Place Woods back in May 1944, hidden
under the thick tree canopy from enemy aircraft, soldiers from the 21st
Army established their camp, gathering equipment, vehicles, ammunition
and weaponry. They conducted exercises and received Top Secret
briefings on the forthcoming Operation Overlord from the Allied
Leadership including General Montgomery who was billeted nearby and
whose temporary Headquarters was located in Southwick House,
alongside US General Eisenhower.
This Saturday and Sunday, 7/8 June, re-enactors will recreate this
activity; the preparation of General Montgomery’s men readying
themselves for D-Day, the Normandy Landings, the liberation of France
and the devastating fight for Victory in Europe.
On a 1/3-mile hard track surface deep in the woods, visitors will be met
and challenged by military police. They will be issued with temporary ID
cards in order to engage with the troops taking part in the classified
briefings and exercises. They might learn some essential French
phrases that were essential for reassuring and seeking assistance from
the French citizens who were suffering the Nazi forces occupation.
So, if you decide to go down to the woods, you can be sure of a BIG
surprise, perhaps some loud noises and realistic preparations for major
warfare.
To get to this new and exciting experience, hop on the shuttle buses in
the village starting from 1030am. The buses will run at intervals based
on capacity (20-22 people for each run). You can spend as long as you
wish in the camp before returning via the shuttle buses to enjoy plenty of
village 1940s-style activity and entertainment at the Southwick Revival.
Tickets for this new experience are available for purchase on the day at
the bus embarkation point. It is only £10 for adults and £5 for children.
Fundraising proceeds will be donated to military charities, divided
amongst local organisations and Rowans Hospice
This is a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history and
honour the heroes of D-Day.
Let’s Go!
See you in Southwick this weekend….
File photo: 21st Army soldier checks ammunition stores in readiness for
D-Day.