Christchurch Earthquake Memorial Service to take place at Westminster Abbey

The Dean and Chapter of Westminster have announced that an official Christchurch Earthquake Memorial Service will be held in London at Westminster Abbey, on Sunday 27 March 2011.

The service is being organised with the New Zealand High Commission, New Zealand Government agencies and community groups in London.

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales will attend the service. Senior figures from the British Government, British Services and representatives of those countries closely associated with the disaster have been invited to attend.

The service will provide an opportunity to reflect on the loss of life suffered as a result of the February 22 earthquake and the huge impact it has had on New Zealand’s second largest city, its people, and those from around the world affected by the tragedy.

It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the generosity, sympathy and support New Zealand has received from the United Kingdom since the earthquake hit. The people of Japan, who suffered their own earthquake and tsunami on March 11, will be remembered in the service.

The service will begin at noon on Sunday 27 March. Tickets have been balloted for members of the public to attend. Proceeds from a collection after the service will go towards the New Zealand Government’s Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

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