CWGC Open Day at South Shoebury (St Andrews') Church 2026

Learn more about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the casualties buried here. Explore the Norman church and take a look at the burial, baptism and marriage registers - you might find out more of your 'everyday history'.

Come and find out about the stories of some of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission casualties at St Andrew's Church, South Shoebury by taking a tour of the churchyard. Learn about their 'everyday histories' and how their lives were cut short by war. Meet CWGC staff and volunteers who will be delighted to talk about the work of the Commission and help you use our database to potentially uncover forgotten stories in your family tree and share them on For Evermore our story portal. Speak to our Assistant Archivist, Jennifer Kossak, who will be bringing from the CWGC Archives, two of the original wooden crosses used to mark graves in the churchyard.
At the Open Day you will be able to explore St Andrew's Church which is a lovely Norman Church. You can look at the display to find out more about the church history and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. There will also be the opportunity to look at the burial, baptism and marriage registers with a church volunteer - can you find out some of your own family history from them?
There will be activities for children including a CWGC activity booklet.
The day will start at 1100 with a short Act of Remembrance at the Cross of Sacrifice in the churchyard behind the church.

The Open Day runs between 11:00 - 15:00 pre booking is not required.

Contact on the day: Elizabeth Smith 07812 369576

The church and hall are both fully accessible and there is a disabled toilet in the hall. There is a hearing loop in the church. Some of the paths are not easy for wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. Assistance dogs are welcome everywhere. Dogs on leads welcome in the churchyard. Dogs on leads welcome in church within reason. Bear in mind it's a small church so one at a time is probably best. Owners should also check before entering in case of severe dog hair allergies or nervousness of anyone inside.

Our tours are free to the public, but if you would like to support us then please consider donating to our charity The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation (CWGF).

https://foundation.cwgc.org/donate/

The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation (CWGF) aims to actively engage all communities with the work of the CWGC by telling the inspiring stories through education and outreach projects.

The CWGF is an independent charity registered with the Charity Commission of England and Wales (1171947) and Scotland (SC051982).