SCORES of people gathered to remember those who have given their lives in service on Remembrance Sunday in Winchester.
The day began with a parade, starting from The Broadway, at 9.30am, with both military and civic processions marching along the High Street.
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Reverend Catherine Ogle, Dean of Winchester, then welcomed visitors to the cathedral for the service at 10am on Sunday, November 12.
Shortly before 11am, the congregation joined the hundreds gathered outside in the Outer Close for the official two minutes silence.
Wreaths were laid at the War Memorial by Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Angela Clear, MP Steve Brine and dozens of local groups and associations.
The service closed with ‘The Blessing’ as read by Dean Catherine Ogle, before the crowds dispersed, with many taking the opportunity to speak to old friends and take memorable photos.
Chris George, chairman of the Royal British Legion and organiser of Winchester’s Poppy Appeal, said: “It went really well. The parade was fantastic and it’s nice to see so many people in the cathedral grounds again. I think it’s the first year since Covid we have had so many people.
“It’s important to remember the armed services and the ultimate sacrifice they gave so people can live their lives today.”
Gill and Phil Mann, from West Sussex, were in Winchester for the weekend to celebrate their anniversary.
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The ex-Royal Navy couple, originally from Hampshire, got married on November 11 in 1999 and had a two-minute silence on their wedding day.
Phil, 52, said: “The procession was fantastic. It’s our history, so it’s really important to come out and support. We both know the commitment they give.
Gill, 55, said: “It was really poignant and beautiful. It was so nice to see so many different people involved.
“I’m still in touch with all those people I served with, it’s a family and we have lost some of them along the way.”
Peter Salter, 61, from central Winchester, said: “The procession was very good, I come to see it every year.
“Remembrance Day is important so we don’t forget and we remember what they have done and what they are doing now.
“I’m here to support them. I was in the army myself for a short time, I spent 10 years in the Royal Navy.”
Gill O’Dea left her home in the Isle of Wight at 4am to come and see her grandson in the Winchester procession and service and meet the rest of her family from Alresford.
Mrs O’Dea said: “Our grandson is holding the flag for the Army Cadets. It’s lovely and we feel very proud.”
To view the parade, watch the Chronicle's Facebook Live video below.
And for pictures of the service, click on the top image to see the gallery.
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