PUBS across the South West will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of WW1 by raising a glass to all of the Servicemen and women who were injured or lost their lives fighting for their country.

On Monday 4 August, 100 years to the day since Britain declared war on Germany, customers in St Austell Brewery’s 168 pubs and inns across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset estate will take part in the ‘Raise a Glass – a Tribute fit for Heroes’ event which has been organised by the Brewery’s fundraising team.

Landlords will call time at 9pm, asking customers for a moments silence and to raise their glasses in tribute.

After glasses have been raised to the war heroes, staff at the pubs will go around with collection tins and wristbands for sale, with proceeds going to the charity Help for Heroes.

St Austell Brewery’s Director of Marketing and Communications Jeremy Mitchell said: “We felt it was important to recognise the significance of the WW1 anniversary, and pay tribute to all of those who have been injured or lost their lives in conflict.

"The pubs in our estate have all been very supportive and keen to get involved with the event, which hopefully will raise a significant amount of money to help the wounded and their families here in the South West.”

The Visitor Centre at St Austell Brewery has added a new commemorative war display to coincide with the 100 year anniversary, which will also be opening to the public on Monday 4 August. The display pays tribute to all those with connections to the Brewery who were involved in the two World Wars.

Help for Heroes offers comprehensive support to those who have suffered life-changing injuries and illnesses in the line of duty. This is provided through grants to individuals, other charities and organisations, capital build projects and four Recovery Centres across the UK which offer support for life.

Bryn Parry, Co-Founder of Help for Heroes: “H4H is all about ‘doing your bit’ and St Austell Brewery’s ‘Raise a Glass’ is a wonderful example of people having a good idea and rallying support while raising money for a wonderful cause.

"It is thanks to the generous public that we have been able to achieve so much in a short time, but the soldiers, sailors and airmen who are injured today will still need our support in the future.

"They are still battling and we won't let them battle alone. This year’s anniversary events for WW1 and D-Day remind us how important this is and the shared respect between the veterans of all generations. Our aim is to ensure support is there for the wounded and their families, for life.

"That’s a big commitment and we are counting on our friends’ on-going help to deliver on this promise. Thank you to St Austell Brewery and to everyone joining in and raising a glass – we hope you have a wonderful evening.”