Festival marks 85 years since Coventry Blitz

Coventry Cathedral will host several events during the Peace Festival

An annual festival returns next month, marking 85 years since the Coventry Blitz.

Running from 1-16 November, Coventry City Council said this year's Peace Festival would reflect "Coventry's proud role as a city of peace and reconciliation".

A 20m-tall installation will be on display in the city centre inspired by the cathedral, which was destroyed in the blitz.

Built from 1,300 cardboard boxes crafted by residents, the council said the structure symbolised "unity, remembrance and hope".

A lecture will be delivered by human rights activist Mandy Sanghera, with other events including a multi-faith peace walk, woodcarving workshops and a student-led discussion on digital peace building.

On 9 November, the Remembrance Sunday service and parade will take place at the War Memorial Park, followed by a communal grave service at London Road Cemetery.

A civic service and vigil to mark the Blitz anniversary will be held at Coventry Cathedral on 14 November.

The festival will also feature Reborn Phoenix, a tribute to women's courage during the Blitz, and It Takes a City, a promenade performance by Talking Birds telling the stories of bomb disposal crews.

Abdul Khan, deputy leader of Coventry City Council, said: "The Peace Festival reminds us of the power of community, creativity and compassion.

"As we mark 85 years since the Blitz we reflect not only on our city's past but also on our shared responsibility to build a peaceful future."