Thousands of residents paid their respects at the weekend as the town marked the anniversary of the end of hostilities in the first World War.

The day began with an open-air service on Sunday with prayers, the Last Post and a two-minute silence before wreaths were laid at the foot of the Borough War Memorial in the town’s Victoria Square.  

The Mayor of the borough, Councillor Mark Winnington, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Liz Barnes CBE, and other civic dignitaries then processed to the nearby County War Memorial to lay wreaths.

Following the wreath laying, members of the public and families lined the streets of the town centre to show their appreciation for service personnel from the 22 Signal Regiment and Tactical Supply Wing of the RAF who were part of the traditional parade.  

The Stafford-based military were joined by other organisations, including army, sea and air cadets, and members of the Royal British Legion as they marched through the town centre to huge applause just before noon.

Councillor Winnington, said he was ‘incredibly proud’ of the borough’s military links and praised everyone for joining him to mark the traditional Remembrance commemorations.

The event is held annually on the Sunday nearest to Remembrance Day on 11 November which marks the anniversary of the end of hostilities in the first World War in 1918.  

Councillor Winnington added: “Like many of our residents across the borough I am incredibly proud of the strong military presence we have in Stafford. It was wonderful to see service personnel from 22 Signal Regiment and Tactical Supply Wing marching through the town centre along with so many other excellent organisations.

“I was so pleased residents of all ages turned out to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have made tremendous sacrifices in conflicts around the world. Their courage and service helped protect the freedoms we enjoy today, and it is vital that we continue to remember and honour them.”

On Wednesday (11 November) prayers and a two-minute silence will be held as part of the Act of Remembrance in the town’s Market Square from 10.50am. The short service will include the Last Post and Reveille.

Press Release Number 6345