Blue Plaque being unveiled reflecting Agatha Christie's time as a nurse in Torquay
A special event and film screening is taking place this weekend
Last updated 11th Sep 2026
A blue plaque celebrating Agatha Christie's time as a nurse is being unveiled this weekend in Torquay.
It's part of the world famous international Agatha Christie Festival, which gets underway this weekend celebrating the Queen of Crime's links to the area.
Creative Director Matt Newbury said: "We're working with the British Red Cross to put on a special event celebrating Agatha's time as a nurse in the First World War.
"We'll have a brand new blue plaque being unveiled at 12.30pm with Torbay Civic Society doing that and Matthew Prichard - Agatha Christie's grandson - is coming down to unveil that.
"Then we'll have some talks inside and we can watch a brand film we've put together about Agatha's life during the times of the First World War."
The event is taking place at Torquay's Assembly Rooms, with more details here.
The writer served as a Voluntary Aid Detachment 'nursing auxiliary' and later as an assistant dispenser at the Town Hall hospital from 1914 to 1918.
It is believed her hands-on experience - handling pharmaceuticals and compounding medicines in the dispensary - helped inform some of her classic stories as she also learnt about poisons.
The Agatha Christie Festival is a registered charity which runs community and school projects to support the local area and improve access to the arts and literature.
This year's festival opens with a four-day Fringe Festival, featuring a variety of social events and unique experiences in locations across the Bay. It will be followed by a four-day Literary Festival, hosted in the Spanish Barn at Torre Abbey, alongside a number of evening social events. The festival will conclude with a garden party featuring a special Agatha-themed twist.
This year organisers have also worked with more than 300 local children and young people, helping them discover the joy of reading, storytelling and creativity through activities inspired by Agatha Christie's life and works.
Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events and Corporate Services, said: "Agatha Christie's connection to Torbay continues to be a source of pride for our community.
"The International Agatha Christie Festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate her life, achievements and enduring legacy while showcasing the unique heritage that makes Torbay so special."
"The festival also helps inspire future generations through its work with local children and young people, encouraging a love of reading, storytelling and creativity."
Matt Newbury, Festival Director for the International Agatha Christie Festival, added: "This year's programme celebrates many different aspects of Agatha Christie's life, from her wartime service and literary achievements to her lasting connection with Torbay.
"Across the festival, people will have the opportunity to explore the places that inspired her, learn more about her remarkable story and enjoy a wide range of events, activities and experiences for all ages."
"We are particularly excited to share new films, launch the Agatha Christie Mile, welcome families to our free harbourside trail, and continue our work with more than 300 local children and young people."
"Whether you are a lifelong fan of Agatha Christie or discovering her work for the first time, the festival offers a chance to celebrate her extraordinary legacy while bringing together residents and visitors through a shared love of reading, history and culture."