Community to come together to remember

MELKSHAM will come together this weekend to mark Remembrance Sunday and pay respects to the fallen and injured of all conflicts, and all affected by war.

This year’s event, on Sunday 14th November, will be the first that the community is being encouraged to attend in person, after last year’s event was held ‘virtually’ because of Covid restrictions. 

“Remembrance Sunday holds a special place in every person’s heart and it is wonderful that this year we are able to, once again, come together to commemorate those who made the maximum sacrifice in previous conflicts,” said Melksham’s mayor, cllr Jon Hubbard. 

“The people of our community will be able to join together in person to remember these heroes and pay the respect they so richly deserve.  

“Whilst I hope that people will be sensible and follow social distancing guidelines and play safe, it is right and proper that we come together to pay our respects and I look forward to seeing fellow residents at the ceremony.”

In preparation for the annual event, poppies have been projected on to the Town Hall and the Market Place, and town council staff have decorated lampposts in the Market Place with poppies.

The Annual Service of Remembrance will be held at St Michael & All Angels Church, Canon Square, on Sunday 14th November at 11am. It will be followed by a wreath laying ceremony in Canon Square.  

The event will start with a parade from King Street car park at approximately 10.45am. All ex-service men and women and serving members of HM Forces are welcome to take part.  Please report to the parade commander at 10.30am in the car park.  

“The nation will come together to remember the fallen and injured of all conflicts, and all affected by war,” says Melksham Town Council, who organise the event along with the Melksham branch of the Royal British Legion.  

“The service will take place at 11am and this will be followed by the wreath laying ceremony in Canon Square, with the return parade taking a salute in the Market Place, before proceeding back to King Street car park. Wreaths of many veterans, youth groups and local organisations will be laid, led by the RBL and the Mayor, and a service will follow.    

“Please note, road closures will be in operation for limited periods between 10.30am and 1.30pm.  

“After last year’s virtual Remembrance, we are pleased that Remembrance Sunday can be observed in person this year.  The service will give the opportunity for the town to recognise the sacrifice of many, both in the armed forces and civilians, who have suffered, or continue to suffer as a result of conflict. 

“For Remembrance Day itself on Thursday 11th November, a small service and two minutes’ silence will take place at the War Memorial, Canon Square at 11am, to which all are welcome.”