A special arrangement of the hymn tune 'O Valiant Hearts' has been released by the EYMS Band in the run-up to Armistice Day on 11th November.

It has been arranged by conductor Ian McElligott and expertly realises the original work composed by the Revd Dr Charles Harris to commemorate the sacrifice of the fallen of the First World War, coupled to the words taken from Sir John Stanhope Arkwright's poem 'The Supreme Sacrifice'.

Unknown soldier

Harris knew the pain of losing a loved one, as his own son was killed during the conflict. The solemn simplicity of Harris' music and the humble dignity of Arkwright's words captured the mood of the nation with the hymn being sung at the dedication of the tomb of the unknown soldier in Westminster Abbey on November 11th, 1920.

Ian McElligott's setting of 'O Valiant Hearts' is entitled 'The Poppy Fields of Flanders' and is dedicated to the Royal British Legion. In its extended instrumental form this devotional work allows time for personal reflection and meditation.

Ian McElligott's setting of 'O Valiant Hearts' is entitled 'The Poppy Fields of Flanders' and is dedicated to the Royal British Legion4BR

Centenary

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We worked with Ian in late 2015 and this arrangement featured in concert performances receiving a very positive audience reception.

As a result it was decided to record this setting to mark the centenary of the cessation of hostilities. It is now available as a download with all monies raised going to The Royal British Legion.

The band recorded the composition with MD Stig Maersk, working with Richard Scott of RAS Audio and Ian McElligot assembled at All Saints Church Winterton in July, with the artwork for the release showing a mural painted by local artist Neil Deanes.