Ledegem in May

Ledegem is a small town in West Flanders approximately 30 minutes drive east of Ypres (Ieper). From 1914 to 1918 the town was occupied by German forces and many of the town’s inhabitants fled. Those that remained were subject to marshal law and many had to work for the occupying army. During this time the Church was converted to a hospital as was a large house within the town. Ledegem was a railhead for supplies destined for the German front line. In October 1918, 2 battalion of The Leinster Regiment liberated the town from occupation when two Leinster VCs were won.

During the weekend of 30 May 1st June the Ledegem Historical Society are to launch their programme of events scheduled to take place between 2014 and 2018.

The weekend will include walking and bicycle tours to visit places of interest relative to the occupation and an exhibition of WW1 artefacts, including items provided by the Leinster Regiment Association.

The theme of the weekend is Occupation and Liberation and will present a unique opportunity to gain an insight into life in a Belgian community during WW 1.

There will three small exhibitions, two in the town depicting the occupation of Ledegem and one on the outskirts in the Diaseldaele Hotel that focuses on the events leading up to and the liberation of Ledegem in 1918.

Excellent accommodation is available at The Diaseldaele Hotel on either B&B or Half Board basis

The Victoria Cross was awarded to

The Leinster Regiment

Sergeant John O’Neill VC MM

Private Martin Moffat VC

Royal Newfoundland Regiment

Private Thomas Ricketts VC

Nearby WW1 places of interest

Town of Ieper (Ypres)

WW 1 German Trenches

CWGC Dadizele

Places to visit in Ledegem

St Pieter’s Church

Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery

Hotel Accommodation

English is spoken at the Hostellerie Daiseldaele For a booking it is best to email the hotel and mention The Leinster Regiment Association for best rates.