We thank everybody who watched our live ceremony, broadcast on our Facebook page on Sunday morning to commemorate Remembrance Sunday.

The broadcast from our castle grounds reached over 2200 people, and can still be watched at www.facebook.com/GuildfordBC.

It was led by Revd Canon Robert Cotton, Rector of Holy Trinity St Mary’s Church, with wreaths laid by Col Patrick Crowley, Deputy Colonel of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, Member of Parliament for Guildford, Angela Richardson MP, the Deputy Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Marsha Moseley, Leader of the Council, Cllr Joss Bigmore, Managing Director of the Council, James Whiteman, and individual representatives of our local service organisations and emergency services.

Bugler WO2 Peter Bryan, Band Sergeant Major (BSM) of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Band, played the Last Post and Reveille.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Joss Bigmore says:

“I was proud of the way that we were still able to honour our servicemen and women despite current Coronavirus (Covid-19) restrictions. We have had to adapt and find new ways to engage with our residents throughout this year, and it was great to know that so many people joined us online to share this poignant occasion.

“This was the third event this year that we have broadcast via social media, following our VJ Day and VE Day ceremonies, although this was our very first ‘live’ event. We hope to be able to cover future events in the same way, to allow as many people as possible to enjoy them. Thanks to Guildford media agency Delivered Social for their help with the live stream.

“We are also holding a private Armistice Day service on Wednesday, and we will share photographs from this on our social media channels. Our ‘Guildford Remembers’ flags continue to fly in the castle grounds and on our Guildhall balcony, with the Castle Keep and the Guildhall also lit in red to show our support for the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal.”

Deputy Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Marsha Moseley says:

“It was a beautifully sunny morning to remember the sacrifices made by members of our Armed Forces. We missed the presence of several organisations plus the hundreds of members of the public who usually attend, but I am pleased that we were still able to share this moment with them.

“It was heartening to know that they paused with us, and the rest of the nation, to observe the two-minute silence and remember the bravery and determination of our soldiers. We will never forget those who served with such distinction, and it is important that we continue to honour them in whatever way we can. We shall be forever in their debt.”

Revd Canon Robert Cotton, Rector of Holy Trinity St Mary’s Church says:

“I am delighted that all of our residents had the opportunity to join us on such an important day. Remembrance Sunday is very personal to all of us, as we remember family members and loved ones who have served our country, but it also unites communities in respect and reflection. Social media has the power to bring us all closer together at a time when we need the support of our friends and neighbours more than ever.”