I have attended a number of parades in Spalding in the past five years, but this one (Armed Forces Day) excelled, especially with the warm weather as everyone attending made sure it went off well and were saying we will give it our very best.
A new innovation was the 20 Royal British Legion motorcyclists leading the parade with enthusiasm. The respected Peterborough Highland Pipe Band got the parade underway with good marching tunes which livened up the marchers. Upon arrival at Hall Place, the parade halted for the service conducted by the Rev Canon Michael Bullock. The Last Post before the silence, was played by Steve Wand, who as always, did a fantastic job.
The silence observed on a busy Saturday morning, was most noticeably respected.
The Lincolnshire Royal British Legion parade marshal, Alan Canham, controlled the parade with dignity. The five Standard Bearers smartly carried their standards with pride, it was most pleasing to see a good cross-section of the community in the parade.
Many people think that such events just happen, but I know from vast experience of parades in London, over the past 25 years, much work, over many, many hours, goes totally unnoticed.
To this end, I wish to offer my very grateful thanks to Coun Jan Whitbourn BEM for the hours of dedicated time spent organising the event and admirably handling last-minute changes.
A good selection of refreshments was served in the Spalding Services and Social Club. They certainly livened everyone up and brought people together recollecting the past.
Coun Whitbourn was dedicated to the job and has been for many years, respected praise must go to her for her dedication to the event.
Having spent time at sea, in many parts of the world, it made me proud to attend as a veteran to remember those who gave their today for our tomorrow.
Tim Brant MNM FEI
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