We will remember them - Bedford marks Remembrance and Armistice Day

On Sunday, a parade marched along the Embankment for a wreath laying and service at the war memorial led by the Bishop of Bedford, the Right Reverend Richard Atkinson OBE.

And on Tuesday, November 11 the town marked Armistice Day – when the guns fell silent bringing an end to the First World War at 11am on November 11, 1918.

The ceremony was held in Harpur Square and included a two-minute silence and inspection of the parade by the mayor and Lord Lieutenant.

Before the commemoration, a moving ceremony took place at the memorial in the Mayor’s parlour to honour the men of the Bedfordshire Yeomanry who gave their lives in the First World War. As part of the ceremony, their names were be read out.

Traditionally, a private moment shared in the room by dignitaries, veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces and the Royal British Legion, this year it was live streamed inside the Harpur Suite.

Tom Wootton, mayor of Bedford borough, said: “Our Remembrance events showed how grateful Bedford Borough is to the Armed Forces community from Britain and the Commonwealth for their service and sacrifice, as well as the special contribution of families and of the emergency services.

“Once again, we came together as a community to pay tribute, show gratitude, and ensure that the legacy of service and sacrifice is never forgotten.

“As always, it was an honour to take part.”

> Mark Rutherford School was one of the many schools and organisations marking Remembrance Day, and ahead of the day the Sixth Form president and vice president have been selling poppies on behalf of the Royal British Legion.

Anna Vallance, director of Sixth Form, said:“We are immensely impressed with the sense of responsibility our Sixth Formers have. Every year they participate in volunteering within the school and in the community. Our annual remembrance ceremony is a key aspect of educating our young people about the sacrifices made by previous generations.”