Remembrance Sunday parade and wreath-laying in Brentwood

The parade led by the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band began at the town hall by members of the Armed Forces from the Army, Navy and Air Force.

They were followed by veterans, cadets, scouts and guides and members of public services such as the fire brigade.

The parade on Sunday (November 10) went down Middleton Hall Lane to the Brentwood War Memorial in Shenfield Road where wreaths of remembrance were laid to the fallen.

A two-minute silence began at 11am — the hour the guns fell silent to end the First World War on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.

The parade then continued along the High Street, where the salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Jennifer Tolhurst, accompanied by the Brentwood Royal British Legion branch president Dennis Rensch and the Mayor of Brentwood Mark Haigh.

Brentwood War Memorial was at the centre of the events (Image: Richard Lincoln)

“Remembrance Day is a time for reflection, gratitude and unity,” Cllr Haigh said.

“We remember the countless individuals who served to protect our freedoms who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending those freedoms that we enjoy today.

“We recognise the dedication and commitment of all service personnel past and present who have served our country.”

The wreath-laying was followed by a service at St Thomas’s Church.

Hundreds of residents had come together on Remembrance Sunday “to pay their respects and honour the courage and sacrifice of the brave individuals,” the mayor added.

Mayor Mark Haigh lays a wreath at Brentwood War Memorial (Image: Richard Lincoln)

Remembrance Sunday has been held since 1919 to commemorate the end of the conflict that was meant to “end all wars”.

But the next generation endured the far more devastating Second World War, with other subsequent conflicts around the world which have cost lives in defence of freedom.