THOUSANDS of people came together this Remembrance Sunday to pay their respects to those who have died in conflict.
Remembrance Sunday marks the peak of the Poppy Appeal. Which is The Royal British Legion’s national fundraising campaign aimed to raise money for soliders and their families. But this year the Legion bosses are asking the public to Rethink Remembrance to address the idea that younger veterans are being forgotten, as they explain on their website:
For many people, Remembrance is associated with the fallen of the First and Second World Wars. While we will always remember them, the Legion wants to raise awareness of a new generation of veterans and Service personnel that need our support.
This year’s fundraising target for the Poppy Appeal has been set at a record amount of £43m. This comes despite the recent controversy over FIFA’s allegations that the Poppy is a political symbol instead the Remembrance Sunday event was focused on those who simply wanted to pay their respects.
Manchester’s lively procession started with drums and bagpipes as the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Carl Austin-Behan, led the march of services and ex-service organisations from Peter Street to the Cenotaph.
Despite the chilly weather the streets were packed with people ready to listen to the multi-faith service and join in with the hymns led by the Irlam Male Voice Choir.
After the laying of the wreaths, the band led the march away along to the sound of the crowd’s clapping. Whilst those who were stood further back, showed their respect in a moment of person reflection.
As the procession dispersed another rather less conventional procession came into sight; on scooters. The ‘Ride of Remembrance’ is a chance for bikers to present a physical show of support for Armed Services along with the lead member laying a wreath and asking the crowd to participate in a further 2 minutes of silence.
By Sapphire Beamish
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