Worcestershire Council to Stream Virtual Remembrance Service

The traditional civic profession, the military parade and the ceremonial laying of wreaths at the war memorial will be cancelled this year.

08:23 27 October 2020

Remembrance Day events will push through this November despite the limitations caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the traditional civic procession from the Guildhall to the Cathedral as well as the ceremonial laying of wreaths at the war memorial outside the Cathedral and the military parade will be cancelled to observe the social distancing protocols that are still in place. 

 

Worcester Cathedral will hold a service of remembrance that will be attended by a limited number of people. The service, which will also see the laying of wreaths inside the Cathedral, will be streamed online for people to watch at home. 

 

City mayor Jo Hodges called on residents to stay safe and observe Remembrance Day accordingly, adding; "This has not been an easy decision, but I have no doubt that it would have been completely irresponsible to go ahead with a parade that always attracts large numbers, especially of veterans – many of whom could be highly vulnerable to the coronavirus.

 

"Remembrance Sunday will still be an event that everyone can observe. Stay at home, watch the Cathedral service online and take some time to privately remember those who have fallen in defence of the freedoms that we all value."

 

A small service will also be held in Malvern on both Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. The services, which are not opened to the public, will be streamed through the town council's Facebook page and will be made available to view afterward on the council's website.