Fringe Box

Socialize

Twitter

An Air of Deep Gratitude as Guildford Remembers the Fallen

Published on: 9 Nov, 2020
Updated on: 11 Nov, 2020

Photo GBC

The borough council has expressed deep gratitude to everyone who watched the Facebook broadcast commemorating Remembrance Sunday.

The ceremony in the castle grounds reached more than 2,200 people, and can still be watched at www.facebook.com/GuildfordBC.

Revd Canon Robert Cotton, rector of Holy Trinity St Mary’s Church, led the proceedings, with wreaths laid by Col Patrick Crowley, Deputy Colonel of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, Angela Richardson MP, the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Marsha Moseley, council leader Joss Bigmore, council MD James Whiteman, and individual representatives of local service organisations and emergency services.

The bugler, WO2 Peter Bryan, Band Sergeant Major (BSM) of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Band, sounded the Last Post and Reveille.

Cllr Bigmore said: “I was proud we were still able to honour our servicemen and women despite the pandemic restrictions.

“We have had to adapt and find new ways to engage with our residents throughout this year, and it was great to know so many people joined us online to share this poignant occasion.

“This was the third event this year that we have broadcast via social media, following our VE Day and VJ Day ceremonies, although this was our very first ‘live’ event.”We hope to be able to cover future events in the same way, to allow as many people as possible to enjoy them. Thanks to Guildford media agency Delivered Social for their help with the live stream.

“We are also holding a private Armistice Day service on Wednesday, and we will share photographs from this on our social media channels.”Our ‘Guildford Remembers’ flags continue to fly in the castle grounds and on our Guildhall balcony, with the Castle Keep and the Guildhall also lit in red to show our support for the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal.”

Deputy Mayor Moseley said: “It was a beautifully sunny morning to remember the sacrifices made by members of our Armed Forces. We missed the presence of several organisations plus the hundreds of people who usually attend, but I am pleased that we were still able to share this moment with them.

“It was heartening to know they paused with us, and the rest of the nation, to observe the two-minute silence and remember the bravery and determination of our servicemen and women.”We will never forget those who served with such distinction, and it is important that we continue to honour them in whatever way we can. We shall be forever in their debt.”

Revd Canon Cotton said: “I am delighted all of our residents had the opportunity to join us on such an important day. Remembrance Sunday is very personal to all of us, as we remember family members and loved ones who have served our country, but it also unites communities in respect and reflection.”Social media has the power to bring us all closer together at a time when we need the support of our friends and neighbours more than ever.”

Share This Post

Leave a Comment

Please see our comments policy. All comments are moderated and may take time to appear.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *