Historic bugle to sound the Last Post at county Remembrance event

This weekend's county Remembrance service in Newport is set to be a poignant and historic occasion, featuring a deeply symbolic tribute that bridges the present with the Island’s wartime past.

In a moment expected to stir powerful emotions, the Last Post will be sounded on a silver bugle once carried into battle by the Isle of Wight Rifles during the Gallipoli campaign of the First World War.

The bugle, steeped in history, was used by Bugler Major Reginald Frank Peachey, who served with the 1st Battalion Isle of Wight Rifles.

Isle of Wight Council chair, Councillor Ian Dore, who has helped coordinate the tribute, shared the remarkable story behind the instrument.

He said: “The backstory to this is incredible. With the family’s gracious permission, the Isle of Wight Lieutenancy has had it on loan for some time.

"We had hoped to use it on Armed Forces Day, but due to illness, that wasn’t possible. Ahead of it going on display, we’ve found the perfect moment to honour its legacy at the County Remembrance Event.”

The bugle was originally presented to the 1st Battalion by the officers and men of the 2nd Battalion before their departure from the Island.

It was carried into battle by Major Peachey, who was wounded while sounding the advance, his silver bugle catching the sunlight and drawing the attention of Turkish snipers.

Fortunately, Peachey survived his injuries and returned home to the Island, where he later became manager of the Waverley Hotel in Carisbrooke. He had been educated at Barton Boys School and passed away in 1952.

Councillor Dore added: “I can’t think of anything more humbling than to hear the Last Post played on a bugle that was used in the First World War by one of our own.

"It’s made even more remarkable by the fact that Bugler Major Peachey survived sniper fire and made it home.

"This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Isle of Wight Rifles’ involvement in Gallipoli, and this tribute carries real significance. I expect many will feel goosebumps when it sounds.”

The bugle will later be placed on public display at the Museum of Island History in February as part of a Gallipoli anniversary display.

But first, it will sound once more in St Thomas’ Square, Newport, during this Sunday's Remembrance event.