Wisbech pays its respects to the town’s fallen

People poured onto the streets of Wisbech to pay their respects to the fallen for this year’s Remembrance Parade.

A sea of poppies were pinned to coats to show the outpouring of support for the annual event which saw ages span the generations which joined the nation for the two minutes silence.

Organised by the Wisbech branch of the Royal British Legion, the event saw a host of local organisations take part including scouts, Brownies, Guides and cadets.

Laying a wreath at the event was North East Cambridgeshire MP Steve Barclay who joined other dignitaries who marked the fallen.

Wisbech Town Council secretary Terry Jordan said: “There was a general feeling that it was busier than usual.

“The service focused on the impact on those left at home during war and also made it relevant to those who have fought in recent wars as well as World War One and Two.

“To see such a great turn out to mark their respects with people of all ages gives great hope that this important ceremony will thrive for future generations to come so that we never forget.

“It was a fantastic turn out, a feeling of real pride that the community had come out in force to join together to remember the impact of war.”

Following a service at St Peter’s and St Paul’s church the cadets were led to the market place for the traditional inspection.

The weekly Sunday car boot sale was scaled down to ensure there was room for the parade crowds, Mr Jordan added.

“We felt it was important to keep the vibrancy of the town centre’s regular car boot event, which has also seen shops like Boots encouraged to open for Sunday trading.

“We felt we got the balance right by reducing the size of it alongside the parade activities.”