Residents urged to take part in Remembrance Sunday's two minute doorstep silence

That's why this newspaper, along with its sister titles across the country, is inviting all our readers to join us in a two minute doorstep silence this Remembrance Sunday, to ensure we still remember in 2020 even if we cannot join together in Acts of Remembrance.

This week we will publish a special Poppy Poster, backed by the Royal British Legion, which we encourage people to display in their windows, or to hold, as they stand on their doorsteps to observe a two minute silence at 11am on Remembrance Sunday.

And we urge everyone this weekend to show their support for Remembrance Sunday by buying a poppy if they are able, or by making a donation to the Royal British Legion.This year more than ever, the Poppy Appeal needs our help as local lockdowns, and more people working from home, limits the opportunities for many people to buy a poppy.

The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field said: "Remembrance this year in many ways will be very different. Parades will not take place and wreath laying will be seriously curtailed, but I know that the community in East Sussex will continue to honour those who gave their lives in two world wars and numerous conflicts since.

"They fought to ensure we may live in a free and peaceful society and we will not forget them. Our forces continue to keep us safe and I know that you will all give generously in whatever way you can to support the Royal British Legion who will make sure our veterans and their families do not suffer in these particularly difficult times."

The High Sheriff of East Sussex Andrew Blackman said: "This year has made us all acutely aware of the fragility of our freedoms and way of life. So it is more appropriate than ever to pay tribute to the men and women of past and present generations who have sacrificed so much to defend our nation.

"Remembrance Sunday is a chance for all our communities to come together to remember those who have protected us over the last one hundred years, and to stand alongside those who continue to serve by supporting the Poppy Appeal."

The Bishop of Chichester Dr Martin Warner said: "The silence of Remembrance Day observations is very important to us.

"This silence crosses boundaries of language, time and space and unites us with people who have given their lives for a better, more just and peaceful world. Silence also reminds us of grief that cannot be put into words, and the crimes of inhumanity that are also part of war and conflict.

"Silence is also space in which we can sense the presence of God and prayers can be framed."

The Director of Fundraising for the Royal British Legion, Claire Rowcliffe, said: "In a year where our homes and streets have developed new meaning for us all, and with many people not able to donate in their usual way, we are bringing the Poppy Appeal 2020 right to the hearts of individuals, families and communities across the UK with a variety of ways for people to get involved, whatever their circumstances.

"Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic undoubtedly makes running the Appeal more difficult, the additional hardships it has brought about means our work is now more vital than ever. The pandemic has had a devastating impact on people’s livelihoods and way of life, leaving some in the Armed Forces community in dire need of urgent help and support. We are seeing people struggling to cope with the loss of loved ones, facing homelessness and unemployment and battling mental health issues

"Every poppy makes a difference to the lives of our Armed Forces community. Whilst you may have to do something different to support the Poppy Appeal this year, every poppy counts so thank you to this newspaper for your fantastic support.”