Guernsey Press

Islanders gather to remember the fallen

HUNDREDS of people gathered at the Smith Street War Memorial yesterday to remember those who had lost their lives in wars.

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People gathered at the Smith Street War Memorial yesterday to remember those who had lost their lives in wars. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 26317759)

Heavy rainfall at 10am did not seem to deter the crowds and by the time the parade arrived at the memorial at 10.45am the sun had come out.

There were more than 20 standards taking part in this year’s event, which included representatives from the emergency services and local organisations. Cadets and veterans all took part in the parade.

The last post sounded at 10.58am and a cannon fired at 11am to start the two minutes’ silence.

Wreaths were then laid, with the first placed by Lieutenant Governor Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder and the second by Bailiff Sir Richard Collas. Deputy Mary Lowe – Mother of the House – laid a wreath on behalf of States members.

Hymns were sung, including Eternal Father, Strong to Save, and He Who Would Valiant Be.

Royal British Legion Guernsey president Bob Place said he was pleased to see so many people turn out for the event.

‘We were lucky with the weather,’ he said.

‘It’s amazing to me how many people support this event in Guernsey every year.’

Two German officers were invited to this year’s service, although they did not attend the event in uniform. Mr Place said he was interested in inviting them to attend in uniform next year.

Among the crowds watching the service was Peter Barnes.

‘I come every year because my grandfather was in the Royal Irish Regiment,’ he said.

His grandfather – Charles John Barnes – fought in the First World War and died in 1916 at the Somme. His body was never found.

What many at the service might not realise was that another parade also took place yesterday morning. The Guernsey Bikers Group did a ride of remembrance from Vistas to St Peter Port. About 40 motorbikes took part and the riders were shaking buckets to raise money for the Royal British Legion.

In London, Policy & Resources President Gavin St Pier represented Guernsey at the National Service of Remembrance and laid a wreath at the Cenotaph.