British Legion unveils its plans for Remembrance
ASHBOURNE’S branch of the Royal British Legion has released more details about how the town intends to mark Remembrance Day this year.
On Sunday, November 14, Ashbourne and the whole nation will remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedom and protected our way of life.
The town will remember the Armed Forces, and their families, from the UK and the Commonwealth, the vital role played by the emergency services and those that have lost their lives as a result of conflict or terrorism.
The branch’s vice chairman Amanda Foster said: “With the support of Ashbourne Town Council, Ashbourne’s Royal British Legion branch are delighted to announce that the Remembrance parade and service will go ahead this year.
“Over the years, the continued show of support from across the town has seen our annual parade become one of the biggest in Derbyshire and second only to the city of Derby, which we are extremely proud of.
“The parade will start just after 10.30am outside the town hall where all uniformed groups and any participants will assemble for the parade to make its way through Ashbourne town centre to St Oswald’s Church.
“The service will start shortly before 11am and will be conducted by Rev Nigel Rode.
“The service will remember those who lost their lives in war and will include representatives from Derbyshire Dales District Council, Ashbourne Town Council, Ashbourne’s Royal British Legion branch, the Ex-servicemen’s’ Club Committee, the Armed Forces, cadet forces, other uniformed groups, public organisations, and any member of the public who wishes to attend the service.
“After the service, the parade will march to the memorial gates where a short wreathlaying service will take place.
“This short service will be live streamed so that local people can watch the ceremony in Covid-19 safety.
“Some town centre roads will temporarily be closed to allow the parade and service to go ahead.
“The parade will then reform and march back to the town hall.”
M s Fostes says the Ex-servicemens’
Club will host a collective town gathering after the parade disbands for those that want to continue marking the sentiment of Remembrance. Food and drink will be available, and entertainment is provided. The branch will continue to monitor government advice for mass gatherings to ensure the health and safety of parade participants and update proceedings accordingly.
There are limited spaces in the church to support current Government Covid-19 guidance, and there may also be a need to reduce the number of spaces in the parade at late notice should the Government’s
guidelines change.
Any alterations to this event will be communicated via the Ashbourne RBL Facebook page.
Ms Foster said: “The Ashbourne Royal British Legion Branch hopes you will either join the parade, line the streets to support the parade or attend the church service to show your continued support to those who have served our country.”
Our parade has become one of the biggest in Derbyshire
Amanda Foster