In 2020 we pay tribute to the men and women of the Second World War generation, and to those of today’s, who have served and sacrificed their lives to defend our nation.
Owing to the covid pandemic, the people of the town will not be able to celebrate remembrance in the usual way. The parade and public church service will not take place. Instead there will be a small, socially distanced wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial in the Market Place at 10:50am led by Bishop Jennings. The bugler will play the last post and the names of the fallen will be read out.
Wreaths will be laid by invitation only by representatives from local organisations. Parades and public services are important but the safety of those attending is our top priority.
This year, the Town Council invites residents to stay safe and pay their respects from their own home by watching the event online. Live streaming will begin at 10:50am on Sunday 8th November 2020, and can be watched via YouTube: https://youtu.be/inSK0ymTNlM.
Members of the public are permitted to observe the ceremony but must ensure that they keep a safe distance of at least 2m apart from people who are not from their household or ‘bubble’. You will be asked to scan the NHS app QR code with your smartphone or provide your details to one of the event marshals to comply with Government test and trace regulations.
Please be mindful of the risks to others and do not attend if you are experiencing covid symptoms, however mild, such as a new persistent cough, fever or loss of sense of taste (anosmia).
Residents are strongly encouraged to consider other ways to ensure Remembrance Sunday is still marked appropriately, by watching the live stream on social media or pausing for the two-minute silence in your home or on your doorstep. You can also visit the War Memorial to pay respects in your own time later in the day when the Market Place is quiet and free from crowds.
This year there will not be a service in the Parish Church following the act of Remembrance in the Market Place, but the Church will be open for private prayer. Anyone who wishes to make use of this opportunity is invited to do so, sanitising their hands and leaving their contact details as they enter the Church building.
Donations to the Poppy Appeal are needed more than ever before and can be made online at: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate The Royal British Legion also has a variety of educational resources that you could use to discuss remembrance with younger children.