Battle pays its respects

Battle Town Band and 1066 Pipes and Drums provided the music as old soldiers and members of local youth organisations marched together from Market Square to St Mary’s Church.

The Lord Lieutenant was greeted and escorted into the church by Ian Cheveralls, Chairman of Battle Royal British Legion.

The service of remembrance was conducted by the Dean of Battle, the Very Reverend Canon John Edmondson.

Mr Cheveralls said: “This year we included the past 100 years bringing the total of those who gave their lives in the Battle area to 176.

“We were graced with the Lord Lieutenant and his wife and also our local MP, dignitaries and leader of various organisations.

“Sergeant Nason Eldrige of the ATC was Parade Marshall this year.”

Following the service a total of 23 wreaths were laid. Mr Don Fellows was in charge of wreaths and was assisted by Cadets from 88 Squadron Battle.

Wreaths were laid by the Perth Royal Service League, who have links with Battle.

American airmen, who lost their lives in crashes over Battle on D-Day, 1944, were also remembered.

Names of the fallen were read by Cadets Benn Catt, Charlotte Terry, Francesca Legge and Nicholas Morgan.

Following wreath laying the parade re-mustered and was led back to Market Square by the 1066 pipers, having been earlier led to the church by Battle Town Band.

The Lord Lieutenant took up position by Battle Abbey for the march past and salute.

Mr Cheveralls said: “It was a very moving experience. The weather could not have been better. Blue skies appeared for the wreath laying and the parade back to Market Square,

“The service itself appealed to both young and old and this was the reason for producing a book of remembrance so younger generations in years to come will read it and pass to their offspring what their forefathers did to make this a happy and honest home.

“To all those who helped to remember and to those who gave their lives - thank you.”

Pictures by Fairytale Photos, Sedlescombe Road South, St Leonards on sea.