Despite the threat of rain and a bitterly cold wind, dozens of local residents gathered at The Prospect on Sunday, November 12th, to mark Remembrance Sunday. As ever, the Ross-on-Wye branch of the Royal British Legion had organised a dignified event to show respect for all those who have suffered and died in the service of their country.

Major Patrick Darling, DL who laid the first wreath at the War Memorial, representing the Queen, reminded those attending the service that it was a time to remember, not just those who lost their lives during the World War I, but in more recent conflicts. In a poignant address he spoke about those who had served during the Falklands War who were remembered earlier this year at a special event in Ross-on-Wye, as well as personal accounts of comrades who had been killed during conflicts in Bosnia.

The Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Nigel Gibbs, was the second to lay a wreath. He was followed by Councillor Jenny Hyde, who represented Herefordshire Council. Jesse Norman, MP for Herefordshire and South Herefordshire was represented by Mrs Valerie Mant, and was followed by Anthea McIntyre MEP, the local Member of the European Parliament.

Many more local groups and organisations then came forward to pay their respects, each laying a wreath. These included representatives of the Armed Forces, Cadet Forces and civilian services as well as local businesses. The Ross Gazette’s General Manager, Charlotte Reynolds was amongst them.

After all the wreaths had been laid, the service moved to St Mary’s Church where the Reverend Simon Tarlton spoke about the importance of silence, and its different qualities.

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