People and organisations in Loughborough joined serving and former members of the Armed Forces on Remembrance Sunday to pay their respects of our fallen heroes.

Queen’s Park hosted another poignant service, with the town’s war memorial the Carillon Tower at the centre.

The iconic Carillon Tower is celebrating its centenary in 2023 and the Remembrance service and parade was an integral part of an important year in its history.

Silence fell at 11am following a rendition of The Last Post, as people remembered those who gave their lives for this country.

In what has become a celebrated and stunning annual spectacle, thousands of paper poppies were scattered from the top of the tower during the two-minute silence.

The Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Margaret Smidowicz said:

“I have attended many Remembrance Sunday services as a councillor, but it was extra special to attend as Mayor, and be able to pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for this country as well as honour former and serving Armed Forces personnel."

“With every passing year, the importance of remembering those incredibly brave people who gave up their lives in service of their country in conflicts all over the world gets greater and great. Thank you to everyone who attended and those who watched at home on the live stream. Your support is greatly appreciated.”

Councillor Louise Jones, the council’s lead member for Climate Action, Net Zero, Property and Assets with responsibilities for the Armed Forces, said: “Once again, the people of the borough have come out to show their support for the Armed Forces, and it makes me feel incredibly proud as a veteran myself to know we have their support.

“I would personally like to thank everyone involved in putting together such an important event. You all played your part in making Remembrance Sunday a special day and ensure that those who have lost their lives in conflict are given the recognition they deserve.”

The service was led by The Reverend Elizabeth York, Acting Chaplain to the Royal British Legion, Loughborough Branch and Chaplain to the Loughborough Schools Foundation, and The Right Reverend Saju Muthalaly, Bishop of Loughborough.

The parade started and ended in the Market Place with the salute following the service being taken near the branch of NatWest in Cattle Market.

The following organisations took part in the parade: The Royal British Legion Loughborough Branch, 1st Loughborough Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade Band, Loughborough Grammar School Corp of Drums, Hathern Youth & Concert Brass and Loughborough Male Voice Choir. Loughborough Concert Band performed in the bandstand at Queen’s Park.

Other Remembrance Sunday services took place across the borough, with the Armistice Day service occurring on Saturday November 11 at the Carillon Tower.