Armistice day observed at service in Ipswich's Christchurch Park
Today marks the anniversary of the end of hostilities in World War I
A service was held at the cenotaph in Ipswich's Christchurch park to commemorate Armistice Day, to honour and remember those who gave their lives in service of the nation. The event began with a two-minute silence at 11 am marked by the sound of maroons, followed by a speech from the town's deputy mayor John Cook and an address and prayer from the Reverend Tom Mumford, the vicar of St Mary le Tower.
Schoolchildren, veterans and other civilians made up the crowd who participated. Memorial events last year were muted owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. Following his speech, deputy mayor Councillor Cook spoke to us about his excitement of having a crowd back.
" It's good this year to be able to meet veterans from Ipswich and the schoolchildren who have come to pay their respects and remember those who fell during the two world wars and the conflicts that followed", he said.
He adds that it is important children are brought and included during memorial services. "When I was in school, there were still first and second world war veterans who marched at our local cenotaph in memory of those who fell. But as generations pass on, the sacrifices of those soldiers can be easily forgotten", Councillor Cook explains.
Crowds will gather at the cenotaph again on Sunday to commemorate Remembrance Sunday, with a parade across the town centre that will conclude with a service at the same venue. Cllr Cook says he understands that some people may be hesitant to attend the event over fears of the spread of Covid-19, so encourages them to remember the occasion in whatever way they can.
" If people do want to come along, its a big park and we're outside so its safe to do so. If they don't feel confident to come out then please remember at home. 11 am on Sunday please observe a two minute silence to honour those who gave their lives so that we can live ours today", he adds.