● RBL honours veterans
Remembrance Sunday marked in TRNC with scaled-back event
LEST we forget . . . emotions ran high as the Union Flag and standards were proudly carried forth at the annual Act of Remembrance at the Old British Memorial Cemetery in Girne on Sunday.
The event, organised by the Royal British Legion (RBL) Kyrenia Branch, was this year scaled down because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Archbishop Michael Lewis led the service this year and veterans of all ages took part.
Speaking to CyprusToday, RBL Kyrenia Branch chairman David Horsfall said that a total of 18 wreaths were laid at the ceremony.
“These included two wreaths for the Cyprus police and UK Police memorial,” he said.
“The event was reduced in size this year due to Covid-19 and the restrictions enforced . . . by the local authorities.”
He added: “The event was still as poignant as previous years and the day was a success in these difficult times.
“To assist those not able to
Photo: Gamze Atay
attend and for others around the world the event was live streamed on [our] Facebook page.
“The event has been viewed over 2,500 times on social media. Individuals were allowed to lay their own wreaths or crosses after the main event in a controlled manner. [I] would like to
Owen Taylor
Archbishop Michael Lewis and Bill Grundy thank all those involved in making the day happen and especially the TRNC authorities.”
An RBL Kyrenia Branch statement added: “Remembrance honours those who serve to defend our democratic freedoms and way of life.
“Today we unite across faiths, cultures and backgrounds to remember the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community from Britain and the Commonwealth.
“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 to defend our nation. We remember the collaboration of the Commonwealth and Allied nations who stood shoulder to shoulder then to secure our freedom and the communities.”
Those who were unable to attend the Girne service posted messages on social media. One, by Gladys Melia, who watched the ceremony online, said: “Very emotional and dignified. Lovely watching from the UK. So proud.”
Pamela Padden wrote: “Very proud of RBL Kyrenia Branch. Well done all.”
Derek Chilvers added: “Well done everybody I just [wish] I could have been there with you to represent the Suffolk Regiment as usual.”
Margaret Holt Ellis wrote: “Thinking of my dear brother laid to rest in [Commonwealth War Graves Military Cemetery] Waynes Keep [in the UN buffer zone] in 1958”.
Betty Miles said: “My husband’s school friend’s name appears on the memorial. Robert Bunton Royal Corps of Signals, died in 1958, aged 19.”