It must be very rare to have hundreds of people in the centre of a town on weekend nights and hardly hear a word spoken.

But that is exactly what happened in Stafford at the weekend as more than 1,500 people came to watch a light and sound show projected onto the Grade ll* listed Shire Hall as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those across the world wars.

‘Before Action’ pierced the darkness by illuminating the historic frontage of the Shire Hall on Friday and Saturday night (7 and 8 March). In the year in which we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War 2, this was perfectly timed for everyone to attend on a pleasant spring evening - before the clocks move forward and the evenings become too light to get the full benefit of this display.

People crowded in and around the town’s Market Square - from babes in arms to those much, much older. They watched in respectful silence as the building was transformed with stunning images to remember the fallen - until the first 25-minute slot was over and the quietness broken by a spontaneous round of applause.

Among those watching was the local MP, the Leader of Stafford Borough Council, and the Mayor of the Borough - as well as other civic leaders. Not that you would have known as there was no special private viewing area, no VIP seating, no announcements. They were just faces in a crowd, alongside members of the Stafford Branch of the Royal British Legion, who had all come to pay their respects.

Praise flowed from those who saw the installation: “Seeing the Shire Hall lit up today was amazing” “It was incredible” “Very emotional” Absolutely stunning! Thank you” “Tells the story very well.”

Former Royal Marines Commando, Paul Meredith, summed up the evening when he said: “This was brilliant. It is very nice to see the people of the town come together to pay their respects. Meeting people that you don’t know, coming and speaking to you about it. And they are of all ages - young and old - this has brought them into Stafford and brought them together.”

Staffordshire-born artists, sculptor Peter Walker and composer David Harper, joined forces with the borough council to run the event across the two nights.

It was a real coup for Stafford. The show, by Luxmuralis, had previously been at the Tower of London and, last month, another installation by the creators was in St Paul’s Cathedral. Luxmuralis are taking their work to iconic landmarks across the country.

Borough Council leader, Aidan Godfrey, said: “I thought it was an amazing and very moving display. Our borough has tremendous affection for our servicemen and women, and it was no surprise to see so many people come into town and share in this wonderful tribute to the fallen in such a respectful way.”

Peter, Luxmuralis Artistic Director, said: “‘Before Action’ is inspired by themes of reflection and hope and we invite viewers to pause and connect with the poignant stories of the past while contemplating the enduring message of peace.”

He added: “In the year when we commemorate the end of World War 2 and VE Day 80 those who gave their lives in the two great wars are honoured in this spectacular tribute.”

And I am sure the people of Stafford, who came out in their hundreds to see it, would agree.

Press Release No 6198