Sunday 14th November 2010

(Article courtesy of Milton Keynes Citizen)

Remembrance Sunday in Milton Keynes was the biggest and best attended in the past decade, agreed soldiers young and old this week.

Parades, church services and 
wreath-laying ceremonies all over the city saw record turnouts from forces members past and present.

There were also larger than usual crowds of public who came to join in, said Bletchley’s Royal British Legion chairman Terry Hall.

“I think people are more aware of war and the losses it can cause because of the situation in Afghanistan and Iraq,” he said.

Some of the soldiers mourning their colleagues were just 18, fresh back from Afghanistan.

Others were veterans of World War Two, now in their 80s or 90s.

And all over the city guide and scout troops joined in the parades to show their support.

“ For all of us it is a highly emotional day and we appreciate the public support,” said Mr Hall.

Milton Keynes Mayor Debbie Brock and her deputy Alan Richards made a whistlestop tour of the city with their consorts to fit in as many different ceremonies as possible.

Milton Keynes Council also sent an officer to each service, with the chief executive David Hill joining the Bletchley British Legion parade.