Armistice Day marked in Rochdale

Date published: 11 November 2020

Members of the community paid their respects at Rochdale Cenotaph today (Wednesday 11 November) as the borough reflected on this year’s Remembrance Day.

With traditional Remembrance Day services and parades cancelled due to Covid-19, members of the public still gathered to honour those who have made sacrifices in defence of the country.

Adhering to social distancing rules, veterans from the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force observed the silence in Rochdale Memorial Gardens and laid wreaths on the Cenotaph.

The service began with bugler Amy Hanson, of Rochdale Music Service, sounding The Last Post and Reveille from Rochdale Town Hall’s balcony.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Billy Sheerin, was also present on the balcony along with cabinet member for the armed forces, Councillor Janet Emsley, and Chairman of the Rochdale Branch Royal British Legion, Caen Matthews.

Following the renditions, a silence was observed at 11.00am as the town hall bells chimed throughout the town centre.

Wreaths were then laid on Rochdale Cenotaph by veterans and the public, and memorial wooden crosses placed in the grass in front of the soldier silhouettes.

The Mayor laid his wreath on behalf of the borough a little after 11am when the local residents who had observed the silence had left the Cenotaph.

Mayor Sheerin said: “On a solemn occasion, we did not forget. In fallen adversity, the people of Rochdale showed their respects and great restraint.

“I pray that next year we will be able to commemorate this event as we have done for many years.

“We must thank our veterans for their selfless sacrifice for the freedom that we enjoy today, may God bless them all.”

President of Rochdale & District Fusiliers’ Association, Peter Clegg, said: “It’s a shame that we couldn’t have a proper parade and service this year, but the turnout has still been fantastic with over 30 veterans (keeping to social distancing and wearing masks).

“I laid a wreath on Remembrance Sunday on behalf of the Fusiliers’ Association, and I really hope we will be able to continue as normal next year.”

Councillor Janet Emsley said: “Despite the current restrictions we hope that we have honoured the fallen in the best way that we can.

“Yes, this year is different, but we can pause, reflect, and recall the debt of thanks we owe to so many. We all hope that 2021 will be a better year to remember our fallen comrades.

“We will always remember them.”

Caen Matthews, Chairman Rochdale Branch Royal British Legion, trustee of Rochdale Veterans Breakfast Club and Rochdale Council Armed Forces Support Officer said: “On behalf of the Rochdale branch of the Royal British Region, I want to thank the community for the support they have still shown this year, despite restrictions.

“I also want to thank those who stayed at home and stayed safe whilst still remembering those we have lost.

“Lest we forget.”