'Poignant' service to remember Hull Blitz dead

A memorial service is being held in Hull to remember those lost during World War Two, officials have confirmed.

The Citizens Air Raid Memorial Service will take place at 14:00 BST on Tuesday 6 May at the Cenotaph within the city's Northern Cemetery.

The event will pay tribute to more than 400 people who were killed during air raids in May 1941.

Richard Barker, from Hull City Council, said: "Every year we gather to remember those who were lost and how the city rebuilt itself after the damage and destruction that was caused. It's incredibly poignant."

He added: "We know those who gather pass on stories about what happened to their families.

"I think it's vital that we keep the history alive and make sure future generations are aware of what happened."

In total, German bombing raids on Hull killed 1,200 people, injured 3,000 and made more than 150,000 homeless. About 87,000 houses were damaged.

Councillor Mark Collinson, the lord mayor of Hull, described the service as one of the most important of the year for the city.

He said: "When we think of these conflicts we tend to forget civilian casualties. The air raids in Hull were some of the worst and the loss of lives and properties was substantial.

"It is impossible to comprehend what life in Hull was like at that time and it is essential that we continue to pay our respects and tributes to those who were lost."

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