On June 30th 1916, during World War 1, the Sussex Southdown Brigade lost 366 young men and officers in the Battle of Boar’s Head in Richebourg, Northern France,  known as the ‘the day Sussex died’.  

The relationship that has endured between these two towns for the past 100 years, is to be further celebrated with a series of major joint events later this year.

Mayor of Worthing, Councillor Michael Donin, this month welcomed the Deputy Mayor of Richebourg (France) Guy Warein and Anne Moitel, from the French Tourism office who met with local Councillors, Friends of Broadwater Cemetery and Council officers, to discuss plans for an exhibition and other events in Worthing and Richebourgh, marking this 100 Year anniversary..

The meeting followed a visit to Broadwater Cemetery to visit the grave of past Mayor Ellen Chapman, who, alongside the residents of Worthing, raised thousands of pounds at the end of World War 1, for the people of Richebourg whose small town was destroyed by the war.

Worthing’s efforts 100 years ago are still recognised with an official ceremony in the French town, every year.

Pictured from left to right; Deputy Mayor of Richebourg Guy Warein and Worthing Mayor Councillor Michael Donin exchanging gifts.