Lights Out on Britain's landmarks to commemorate WWI

Normally lit up in different colours, the London Eye was in darkness on Monday night. Credit: David Parry/PA Wire

Britain's most famous landmarks were plunged into darkness on Monday night to mark 100 years since the start of WWI.

In the capital, the usually colourfully lit London Eye disappeared from view as the Lights Out event began at 10pm and ended at an hour later.

In the same hour, the nation was urged to switch off lights in places of worship, public buildings, workplaces and homes.

The Houses of Parliament look dramatic against the crimson sky as its lights go out. Credit: Ian West/PA Wire
The familiar view of the Houses of Parliament fully lit up. Credit: Ian West/PA Wire

Only one light was left on- a candle lit outside No.10 Downing Street.

The nationwide event was designed to echo the words of then-foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey on the eve of the conflict: "The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime."

A police officer places the candle outside Downing Street. Credit: REUTERS/Dylan Martinez
The lights in the Prime Minister's residence were switched off to mark the cenetenary. Credit: REUTERS/Dylan Martinez

And further north the lights were turned out on the spectacular Millennium Bridge in Gateshead.

The Millennium Bridge in Gateshead lit up in pink. Credit: ITV pool
The Millennium Bridge in Gateshead in darkness in support of the Lights Out event. Credit: ITV pool

Watch a video of the national Lights Out event below:

Read more: Britain commemorates WW1 100 years on