Hundreds turn out to pay tribute to victims of war
PUBLIC FLOCK TO EVENTS HELD
WAR veterans were among hundreds of people who attended Swadlincote’s Remembrance Sunday service on the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice.
Around a thousand people descended on the town centre to pay their respects to soldiers who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars and subsequent conflicts.
The commemoration began at Hill Street Baptist Church and the pews were full as the Rev Simon Thompsett conducted a thought-provoking service. The congregation joined in hymns and prayers to remember those who had died or had their lives changed forever due to war.
The Swadlincote and district branch of the Royal British Legion and the 1211 (Swadlincote and District) Squadron ATC led the parade, which saw several uniformed groups, including Scouts and Girl Guides, and members of the public march through the town centre to the memorial gates at Eureka Park in Midland Road.
A spokesman for the Royal British Legion said: “This is the biggest turnout we’ve ever had.
“People turn out when it is done right and I think the service this year has been remarkable. All of the hard work put in by members of the Legion has paid off. It’s marvellous and we’re all really chuffed about how well it has gone.” A short service was held by Rev Alison Redshaw and Rev Stella Greenwood at the memorial gates and guests fell silent as the Last Post was played by Kelly Stretton at 11am.
Wreaths were then laid by representatives from uniformed services, public figures, including South Derbyshire MP Heather Wheeler, and decorated war veterans.
Among those paying their respects were Carl Allseybrook, Pete Oakley and Jason Hadley, who have all served during conflicts including in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Northern Ireland.
Jason Hadley, 47, who served in the Senior Regiment of the British Army, said he was remembering friends and colleagues who had lost their lives in conflict.
He said: “I lost a friend last week so I wanted today to be an opportunity to remember him.
“The service was superb. The choice of music was great - it was very sombre. And the number of people that have turned up is incredible. It’s so good to see so many people joining us to remember the people we have lost.”
Carl Allseybrook, 42, and Pete Oakley, 75, who both served in the infantry, were also keen to pay their respects on the 100th anniversary of the Armistice.
Pete added: “The sheer volume of people that have turned up says it all really. It’s really humbling to see people remembering people who have fought and those who have died. “It’s an honour to be here.” Matthew George, parade marshal from the Royal British Legion, said: “Throughout this year we have been recording the names of all the service-