Table, Belgian refugees, Sandal

Thousands of refugees came to Britain when the First World War began. This engraved table remembers those who arrived in Sandal from Belgium in 1914-1915. It is also carved with the Belgian national motto, 'L'union fait la force [Unity is strength]'.

After Germany invaded Belgium in 1914, many people became homeless. They came to the UK as refugees. In Wakefield, the West Riding Distress Committee formed a sub-group to coordinate support for the new arrivals.

Refugees arrived by train from London. They received food and drink and clothing at County Hall before moving to their new homes. The first groups to arrive went to Sandal. Later, towns and villages across the district provided accommodation.