Join the ‘People’s Procession’ to mark peace in 1918

AS news of the signing of the Armistice and the end of hostilities in the First World War spread on November 11, 1918, crowds poured on to Britain’s streets.

This year, on the 100th anniversary of the Great War’s end, 10,000 members of the public are being invited to take part in a new moment of history – by marching past the Cenotaph to replicate that spontaneous outpouring of joy and relief. The Government is inviting members of the public to apply to take part in what has been named ‘A Nation’s Thank You – The People’s Procession’.

The traditional ceremony at the Cenotaph, which is organised by the Royal British Legion and dedicated to perpetuating the memory of those who served in the First World War and veterans of all subsequent wars involving British and Commonwealth troops, will take place as normal.

It will be followed by the People’s Procession down Whitehall at around 12.30pm. Participants, who will be able to lay wreaths at the Cenotaph, do not have to be descendants of veterans. They can be members of the public who have, for example, researched names on their local war memorial, or children who have undertaken school projects on the war.

Applications are being invited at www.armistice100.org.uk and successful applicants will be randomly selected. Tickets will be allocated in pairs.