THE Chard Town Council hosted a huge Remembrance Parade on Sunday, November 10 which entailed a parade and a Remembrance Service at St. Mary’s Church.

The size of the parade seems to grow year on year. This saw groups of all ages integral to Chard’s community come together to pay their respects on this important occasion, from schools to scout groups, guides, charities, community groups, and clubs and societies, as well as vital service providers – Chard Police, Fire and Ambulance Service.

This year Chard Evolution Majorettes kindly provided the soundtrack as the procession left the Guildhall, heading along Holyrood Street to St. Mary’s Church for a Remembrance service. Among the procession we were most honoured to be joined by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Colin Drummond Esq OBE.

“As a Nation, and a Town, we paused on Sunday, November 10 - Remembrance Sunday, and Monday, November 11 – Armistice Day, at 11am to remember those in our armed forces, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for justice and freedom,” Reverend Nick Jerrett, who led the service, said. “This day, allows us to celebrate – not war, for there is nothing to celebrate in the loss of life – but rather the bravery and courage of those who have stood up against wrong; and acting upon the example given to us by Jesus Christ, sought to, and continue to seek through serving in the forces today, for a peaceful world, that is free from hate and conflict. And as such, We Will Remember Them.”

Chairman of the Royal British Legion Chard branch, Darren Squires added: “This year, the community of Chard came together to show their continued respect for all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the Armed Forces. The parade saw new participants from various groups and St Mary's Church grounds were filled with people of all ages who took the time to remember the sacrifices that were made to give us the freedom we have today. We will remember them.”

On Armistice Day a short service and two minutes silence also took place outside the Guildhall, as it traditionally would.

The Chard Town Council would like to thank the community for coming out and paying their respect and for their patience whilst they marked this very important occasion in the town centre.