Mansfield residents urged to mark Remembrance Sunday at home as small service beamed live

People have been encouraged to commemorate the soldiers that fell in both World Wars at home on Sunday, November 8 due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis which threatens the lives of many.

The annual Mansfield Remembrance Day parade will not being ahead this year because of current restrictions and a 30-minute outdoor service, at an undisclosed place will be beamed live from the District Council’s Facebook page.

Reverend Canon Paul Bentley will lead the service which is not open to members of the public and only a small number of Royal British Legion members, a bugler, invited guests and council representatives will be present.

Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams has been invited to read a prayer at the service.

He said: "It is sad news that the parade cannot take place this year but we will still be remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice through wars and conflicts.

"I will be honoured to take part in this service of remembrance and I hope many people in the district will join us in spirit by watching online and paying tribute in other ways. Let's show that Mansfield cares about its veterans and fallen heroes."Mansfield District Council will broadcast the service live through its social media channels from approximately 10.50am on Sunday, alongside messages of thanks and remembrance from the public throughout the day.

Residents have been invited to share stories of their wartime heroes with the council in advance so they can be shared publicly during the service.

People have also been encouraged to remember servicemen and women killed in action in other, Covid-19 secure ways by painting a rock and leaving it outside or displaying a picture of a poppy in their window.

Across the country, the public have been invited to take part in a national doorstep salute at 11am on Sunday, November 8.

Knitted poppies will not be hung on the Old Town Hall this year but a selection displayed in the Four Seasons Shopping Centre, while the Bentinck Memorial will be lit up in red as a sign of remembrance.To share your wartime stories and photos email [email protected].

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