REDDITCH paid its respects to the fallen on Armistice Day today, Thursday, November 11, at 11am.
As a soft rain fell, the Revd Paul Lawlor led the service of remembrance at the town cenotaph, located just off Plymouth Road.
He was joined by borough Mayor Councillor Gareth Prosser, the leader of the Labour group Coun Andy Fry and deputy leader of the Conservatives Coun Gemma Monaco, as well as representatives of the serving armed forces, the reserves, members of the Royal British Legion, community groups and school children as well as ordinary members of the public there to pay their respects.
The Revd Lawlor’s lesson was one of hope but also of the challenges of ‘living in a time between times’ as the country slowly emerges from the pandemic.
Speaking of the Bible, he said: “It gives us a vision of hope, it reveals that all the pain is worth it and the good deeds of the past and present contribute to the future God has for those who trust in Him.”
He asked: “Who is it you are remembering in these moments of silence?
“Is it someone unknown or someone dear to you?
“Let us remember before God all those who have died for their country in conflict and all those who have lived and died in the service of humanity.”
The hymn ‘I Vow to Thee, My Country’ was sung, and sung well too without accompaniment by those gathered, before the Last Post sounded and the two minute silence was observed.
It was followed by Reveille and then the laying of wreaths before the crowd dispersed.
Borough Mayor Coun Prosser said: “It was a very well conducted ceremony, well attended and supported by the community.
“Lest we forget.”
Coun Fry said: “It was very good to be back after last year’s cancellation and to see all parties on the council represented.
“And it’s important that the council does not forget the people of Redditch who fought and died, so we have the freedom to remember like this.”
This Sunday is Remembrance Sunday when the traditional march from the Palace Theatre past the Town Hall will take place.
However the ceremony will be outdoor only with no service afterwards.
