Remembrance Sunday was marked in Cambridge at the weekend, with hundreds gathering at the war memorial on Hills Road.
The city’s Mayor, Cllr Baiju Thittala joined as Cllr Russ McPherson led the procession with his bagpipes, which included representatives of different organisations, including the Armed Forces and the Royal British Legion. The playing of the Last Post by the bugler from Waterbeach Brass signalled a two-minute silence at 11am followed by hymns, music and speeches before the laying of the wreath at the memorial.
At the same time, the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Dinah Pounds, with the Sergeant-at-Mace, led a procession to the county, city and University of Cambridge’s annual service of remembrance at Great St Mary’s Church.
A church service held on Saturday 9 November honoured the fallen Indian soldiers of World War I and World War II. The service included readings, prayers, and reflections paying tribute to the pivotal contributions of the Indian soldiers during both wars where a combined total of 4 million brave soldiers served.
Among veterans present at Remembrance Sunday, was former British Army mechanic, Carl Higgs – Armed Forces Community Development Officer, and Cambridge City Council’s new Sergeant-at-Mace - remembering among others, his great uncle Victor who died aged 18 during the second world war’s Operation Dynamo and whose medals he wore on Sunday in his great uncle’s honour.
Today, at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Armistice Day was marked with a speech and two-minute silence outside the Guildhall on the Market Square.
Cllr Baiju Thittala said: “Remembrance Day and Armistice Day are occasions to honour and remember those who made sacrifices and to reflect on the lessons of the past. It is also a time to remember those who have been affected and continue to be affected by war and conflict across the world.
“It is a privilege to have represented Cambridge as we come together as a city and as a country in remembrance.”