Chelmsford to honour Remembrance Day from home

The normal Remembrance Day public ceremony and parade in Chelmsford cannot be held this year due to pandemic restrictions. So residents of Chelmsford, South Woodham Ferrers and the surrounding villages are being asked to mark Remembrance Sunday on 8 November at home.

A wreath will be laid on behalf of all residents of Chelmsford, and a speech given, by Councillor Jude Deakin, the Mayor of Chelmsford, in a socially-distanced private ceremony. Only the Deputy Mayor, the Mayor's Chaplain, one member of the armed forces and a representative from the Royal British Legion will be in attendance. This will be broadcast on the Chelmsford Council Facebook and Twitter accounts at 11am on Sunday 8 November.

The Mayor said, "We have thought long and hard about possible alternatives. Although we are used to holding a parade and ceremony, the most important thing is that we remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel in conflict. Please watch the ceremony from home on Sunday 8 November and take a moment to remember."

Households are asked to observe the normal two minutes' silence in their own homes. If residents wish to lay a wreath at a war memorial, they are asked to avoid 11am and choose another convenient time, in order to avoid public gatherings. Other suggestions include displaying handmade poppies, children's drawings and poems in windows. People can also download a poppy poster from the Royal British Legion if you donate.

The Mayor added, "Please do not forget the Royal British Legion, who are ordinarily supported through poppy sales and donations at Remembrance events. They are seeing far fewer donations than usual, and this may directly impact on the service personnel and veterans whom they support. I know that money is tight for many residents at the moment, but if you do have a little to spare, please donate to the Legion."