Hundreds of people gathered at the War Memorial in the centre of Londonderry, this morning, for a service and Act of Remembrance to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for freedom in the two World Wars and in other, more recent, conflicts.
This morning’s Service – under a benign autumn sky – was led by the Pastoral Assistant at St Columb’s Cathedral, Rev Canon John Merrick, who was joined by senior clergy from the four main Churches.
The Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rt Rev Andrew Forster; the Bishop of Derry, Most Rev Dr Donal McKeown; the Minister of First Derry Presbyterian Church, Rev Colin Jones; and the Minister at Carlisle Road Methodist Church, Rev Peter Morris, led those present in prayers and hymn-singing, including ‘Abide With Me’.
The annual ceremony is held on the Sunday nearest Armistice Day. It included a solemn ceremony during which wreaths were laid by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry, Mr Ian Crowe MBE DL; political and civic dignitaries; and representatives of various military and policing services.
The Britannia and William King Bands provided music for the event, including a rendition of the National Anthem and a poignant playing of The Last Post.
Immediately afterwards, a Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving was held at St Columb’s Cathedral.
