Sheffield's Remembrance Sunday commemorations move online

Coronavirus restrictions mean there will be no parade and service to commemorate the fallen on Sunday.

Instead, Sheffield will pay its respects to those who gave their lives for their country by streaming a commemoration service online, featuring a short wreath laying and act of remembrance accompanied by one bugler.

It will be filmed and available on Sheffield Council’s Youtube channel and shared on Facebook on Sunday, at 11am, and again on Wednesday, Armistice Day, marking 102 years since the signing of the Armistice to end World War One.

Coun Julie Dore, council leader, said: “This year marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two, as well as the 80th anniversary since the Blitz.

“I know people may be disappointed to hear that the usual Remembrance celebrations this year will not be going ahead.

“With the current health climate preventing a parade or large-scale ceremony from taking place, we have had to significantly alter the way in which we honour the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces, veterans, allies, and civilian servicemen and women.

“The city centre ceremony has always been very well attended; however public safety is always our main priority.

“I’m sure everyone will understand that in light of the ongoing pandemic, ‘Remember at Home’ is the safest way to mark the occasion.”

A council spokesman said the new format for the event ‘has been created to help curb the spread of Coronavirus across the city while ensuring people can pay their respects safely from their home’.

He said: “We courteously ask that any private individuals or city organisations wishing to lay a wreath and pay their respects at the city centre cenotaph do so between November 8-11, avoiding the traditional 11am commemorative service time.

“This will allow for respects to be paid in a safe and socially distanced manner.

“People are reminded that under the national lockdown restrictions, private observances must be with members of household or support bubbles only.”

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