Having read last week’s article about Spalding’s Remembrance Sunday Parade taking place on November 8, I was delighted to see that voices have finally been listened to.
The decision to have the parade march from the town centre to Ayscoughfee Gardens and back again is a very welcome step, and restores the event to the format so many residents remember and value.
I believe there may have been a small error in the article regarding the service.
Traditionally, the Act of Remembrance and wreath-laying takes place at the war memorial in Ayscoughfee Gardens, not at the church, and I hope this can be confirmed for the public.
There have also been some questions raised about the music for the service.
I understand that local singer Jeff Woods is due to perform Bring Him Home.
While Mr Woods is a fantastic talent and greatly appreciated in our community, some have felt that, given its origins in Les Misérables, a more traditional Remembrance piece might be more fitting.
Suggestions put forward include I Vow to Thee, My Country or We’ll Meet Again.
I am sure Mr Woods would be happy to consider an alternative that better reflects the solemnity of the occasion.
Feedback has also been received regarding the Peterborough Highland Pipe Band.
Several service personnel have advised that the pace is not ideal for marching.
If it is not possible to source an alternative band at this stage, I know many would be content to march in silence rather than compromise the dignity of the parade.
Now that we have taken this fantastic step forward in returning the parade to its proper form, I hope the Royal British Legion, SHDC events team, and representatives from our multi-service personnel can come together around the table to finalise the details.
It is so important that we get this right, not just for this year, but for many years to come.
Remembrance Sunday belongs to all of us, and Spalding’s parade should reflect the respect and pride we all share.
Coun Ingrid Sheard
Spalding
