The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is inviting Surrey residents to uncover the fascinating history on their doorstep this September as part of heritage open days, which is the country’s largest festival of history and culture.

Through a programme of free heritage open day tours and talks, the CWGC will be welcoming visitors to cemeteries and memorials across the country to learn more about the servicemen and women who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars and the commission’s ongoing work to ensure their stories are never forgotten.

At Brookwood Military Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the UK, join the CWGC for a free open day on Saturday (12 September), from 10am to 3pm.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the stunning new Brookwood 1914-18 memorial and join a free themed tour, uncovering the fascinating stories of those commemorated across the CWGC and Brookwood American Cemetery.

Families can enjoy a range of children's activities, including headstone rubbing and wreath making, while history enthusiasts can delve into the archives and discover connections to their own family history. There's something for everyone at Brookwood.

The event will highlight some of the remarkable human stories of service and sacrifice, connecting the local community with a shared global history.

Among those commemorated is Major Oliver Hogue, an Australian soldier, leader and celebrated war correspondent who wrote under the pen name “Trooper Bluegum”. He served at Gallipoli and across the Middle East, rising from trooper to major and earning a reputation for courage and leadership.

After the war, he returned to the UK but died from pneumonia in 1919, aged 38. His story reflects the service and sacrifice of thousands of Australians during the First World War.

As well as exploring the new Brookwood 1914-1918 Memorial, visitors can discover the stories of service personnel newly commemorated following years of research.

Featuring 400 names across more than 30 stone stelae - upright commemorations - the new memorial is set within a woodland landscape, creating a peaceful and reflective space for remembrance.

Megan Maltby, head of public engagement at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, said: "Many are surprised to learn that there are Commonwealth war graves and memorials in their local communities.

“Heritage open days are a wonderful opportunity for people to explore the history around them and discover incredible stories that may have been hidden in plain sight for generations.

"We are delighted to be welcoming visitors to Brookwood Military Cemetery and hope that people from across Surrey will join us to learn more about the men and women we commemorate, the work of the commission and the role their communities played in the world wars."

The CWGC commemorates the 1.7 million Commonwealth servicemen and women who died during the First and Second World Wars and cares for cemeteries, memorials and graves at more than 23,000 locations in over 150 countries and territories.

The events are free to attend. To find out more and book your place, visit www.cwgc.org/visit-us/open-days/