THROUGH your newspaper can I once again thank and applaud the hundreds of people from our community who attended the Service of Remembrance held in Sale Town Centre on November 8.

The stormy weather forecast this year certainly didn’t deter the people who arrived long before the service commenced.

People of all ages came to claim a place where they could gain a good vantage point and feel close to the proceedings. A record number of 60 wreaths were laid, firstly by the Mayor on behalf of the people of Sale. Then followed wreaths laid by the British Legion, and ex services associations, and many local organisation all anxious to lay a tribute and pay their respects.

Finally individual veterans, sons and daughters as well as grandchildren of those no longer with us, walked quietly forward to place their individual poppy or a cross in tearful memory and recognition for a loved one which brought a tear to all those who stood in silence.

At the end of the service, the parade which grows in number every year, marched proudly to loud applause which swelled to a crescendo for the proud ex-servicemen.

Despite their years they marched proudly, their heads were held high and all were deeply conscious of the occasion as they remembered their former comrades who had perished in conflict or that sadly time had taken its toll.

At 11am on Wednesday 11th November once again a large number of local people gathered in Sale Town Centre at the War Memorial. There was no parade on this solemn occasion and there was no need. Just two minutes for people to stand in silence. Classes of small children from nearby schools had arrived to stand quietly alongside the veterans and local people. The moment was beautiful in its simplicity.

Sale town centre was a very special place on both 11am on Sunday and 11am on Thursday and I was proud and privileged to have been among people, local people who cared as I do and who remembered.

Councillor Brian D Rigby MBE