A WOMAN with a distinguished history in peacemaking has appeared at Dorking's library to promote a forthcoming exhibition to celebrate an international day of peace.
Dr Lois Lodge was an army doctor for 18 years, became the first woman in the British Army to be appointed to command an operational unit and later worked at a senior level for the United Nations.
The Dorking resident served with the 24 (Airmobile) Field Ambulance, which was sent in as medical support to the UN Protection Forces (UNPROFOR) in the former Yugoslavia.
Dr Lodge is also proud to hold the General Service medal for Northern Ireland, the UN medal for service in Cyprus, and the medal for service in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia.
"The UN service was an extremely good place to find out about other nations and people, and to build bridges," the Tower Hill resident said.
"I learned how helpful well-trained military personnel can be at keeping the peace, and providing humanitarian aid.
"But that is utterly wasted without competent and well-intentioned political direction and support."
The exhibition – which starts at the library in St Martin's Walk on September 16 – is one of a series of events being held in the town to coincide with the Peace One Day event on September 21.
The display will give advice on different aspects of peace-making on a local, national, and international level.
Dr Lodge, who supports the Peace One Day movement, said: "I am led to a firm conviction that non-violent means have neither been invested in adequately, nor trained for and deployed sufficiently.
"So I'd like to change this – and Peace One Day seems to me to be a wonderful agent of change.
"It is important to teach our children and young people how to manage conflict – like bullying – but we adults are the people who should be setting them an example."
Peace One Day coincides with the arrival in Dorking of professional cyclists competing in the Tour of Britain race.
As they cycle up South Street, peace campaigners will cheer them on with appropriate songs. Children will also be scattering "peace doves" around the town.
"It's a happy coincidence that the international 'Peace One Day' falls just as Dorking is again in the national spotlight because of the cycling event," said organiser Sally Elias.
"There should be plenty of spectators lining the route, and we're hoping to engage them in a variety of ways."
As well as peace songs and peace doves, a vigil will be held in the afternoon at the United Reformed Church in West Street. In the evening the church will host a dinner and a concert.
