IT was described as the war to end all wars.

Between July 28, 1914 and November 11, 1918 over nine million troops from all countries involved lost their lives as conflict raged around the world.

Later this year the centenary of the end of World War I will be commemorated in cities, towns and villages all over Europe and beyond.

And closer to home it is hoped to mark Armistice by retelling the stories of those who lived and died during the war years.

As well as a programme of events to be held around Sunday, November 11, organisers want to build up a broad picture of what life was like for the people of Peeblesshire.

Over the coming weeks and months story boards depicting the sacrifice of individuals and families will be compiled.

And during November a special exhibition telling the story of Peeblesshire and its people in 1918 will be held in the Eastgate Theatre.

An organising committee made up of the Lord-Lieutenant for Tweeddale, Professor Sir Hew Strachan, Brigadier Bruce Russell MBE, fellow Deputy Lieutenant Adrian Lucas, Major John Currie MBE, and Parish Minister Calum Macdougall is currently finalising a programme of events to mark the centenary in Tweeddale with special film screenings, lectures, remembrance walks and visual tributes.

Sir Hew Strachan, Lord Lieutenant for Tweeddale, said: "I have been deeply involved with the centenary commemorations of the First World War since their inception, but I never imagined that they would prove quite so successful in their capacity to engage and educate the public.

"Now we are approaching the climax, the anniversary of the Armistice on November 11, 2018.

"Adrian Lucas and Brigadier Bruce Russell have responded by putting together a programme for Peebles and Tweeddale which will match the moment."

To help build up a picture of Peeblesshire during the final days of the Great War, an open invitation has been issued by the organising committee for people to share their family stories.

From the brave who died on the far off battlefields, the returning soldiers who had to rebuild their lives, the war effort at home, or the women and children who were left behind - everyone's stories will be warmly welcomed.

Senior pupils at Peebles High School will help collate all submissions.

And the Peeblesshire News will also publish the stories of courage, tragedy and hope which are uncovered in the run up to the centenary of the end of the Great War.

Deputy Lieutenant of Tweeddale Adrian Lucas said: "Our aim is to recognise and pay tribute to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our shores and our values.

"In particular, as we approach the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, we want to pay tribute and remember those who lived and died 100 years ago.

"There are 230 names on the Peebles War Memorial alone from the First World War - that would have been a sizeable proportion of the town's population."

Almost every week during the Great War, the Peeblesshire News and other local newspapers listed the soldiers who had died on far off battlefields.

And many tributes were made in verse.

A tribute to Lance-Corporal John Brockie of the Seaforth Highlanders, aged 25, was published in the Peeblesshire News by his widowed mother, and sisters and brothers, at 54 Northgate Peebles.

He fell at his post like a soldier brave,

He answered his Master’s call,

He sleeps far away in a hero’s grave,

And died beloved by all.

Anyone who can contribute to telling the story of Peeblesshire and its people during the Great War is asked to send stories and photographs to remembrance1918@gmail.com