Acts of remembrance will be taking place in Sidmouth on Armistice Day, Saturday November 11, and the following day, Remembrance Sunday.
On Saturday, many organisations will observe a two-minute silence at 11am. In Sidmouth there will be a small gathering of military veterans and members of the public in Market Square at 10.30am, to lead off at 10.40am for the war memorial. The start of the two-minute silence is marked by a maroon to replicate the firing of a field gun, followed by the second maroon two minutes later. There will be the laying of a single wreath at the memorial.
Remembrance Sunday, November 12, commemorates the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and women in the two World Wars and later conflicts. Sidmouth Town Council, as the civic authority, invites all groups representing them to attend, especially the younger organisations such as Scouts, Guides and cadets.
There will be a full parade of serving and former members of the armed forces, emergency services and youth groups through Sidmouth town centre to the war memorial for the laying of around 40 wreaths and a short service. The parade will be led by the Standard Bearer carrying the ceremonial Union Flag, fondly known as the Queen’s Colours, bought by the Association of Armed Forces Veterans on behalf of members of the public who donated towards its cost.
Those taking part in the parade will gather in High Street from 10.00, to lead off from 10.30am and the service at the memorial will start at about 10.55.
Anyone wishing to lay a wreath is asked to contact Parade Marshall Richard Waring on 07720 301 999.
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