People in North East Lincolnshire are urged not to attend the cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday
Instead, they should remember the fallen at home.
Last updated 22nd Oct 2020
Due to government restrictions around mass gatherings and social distancing, locals in the area are being asked not to attend the cenotaph on remembrance Sunday.
A small ceremony will take place, to allow representatives from major organisation to lay a wreath in remembrance.
However, it will be very different to the normal service, with few people allowed to attend, and no musicians, cenotaph sentinels or flag bearers due to social distancing.
Everyone who is invited to the cenotaph must wear a face covering.
Alex Baxter, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Lincolnshire and Managing Director of the Armed Forces Major Events Team, said: “It’s important that residents pay their respects in a safe and responsible way.
“We have arranged a small ceremony for specific representatives from across North East Lincolnshire. Those individuals have been invited to attend and lay a wreath.
“If you have not been invited to attend, I would encourage you to instead take a quiet moment to reflect on Remembrance Sunday, wherever you are.”
How you can remember the fallen at home
The Royal British Legion have suggested that people hold a small service in their gardens, or host one over zoom with friends and family.
Poppies are being sold this year in many different ways. People can purchase printable ones, if they are shielding or can't leave their homes. There's also educational packs for children.
Gemma Leaning, the community fundraiser explains how people can help raise money this year:
Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Councillor Philip Jackson, said: “Each year people in our area show tremendous support for our serving Armed Forces members, veterans, and the fallen.
“This year will be a little different. For obvious reasons, we cannot all come together to remember.
“Instead of attending the cenotaph in Grimsby, Cleethorpes and elsewhere, we must remember in different ways. This could be with a quiet moment of reflection at home or with family members. However you choose to remember and pay your respects to the fallen, please do so in line with the Government coronavirus guidance.”