Bognor Regis Remembrance Sunday

Residents came in their hundreds, to pay their respects to our fallen heroes.

The parade, organised by Mike Monk from the Royal Air Force Association Bognor Regis branch, featured veterans as well as representatives from local Scout and Cadet forces, and was led by Parade Marshall, Staff Sergeant Aden Huff of the Army Cadets.

A Cadet Marching band accompanied the parade this year, which added extra ‘gravitas’ to this important occasion.

The poignant service, organised by the Bognor Regis Town Council, was taken by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Major Matt Butler of The Salvation Army, and featured The Salvation Army band.

Wreath layers, dignitaries and other participating organisations were invited into the Council Chamber for refreshments following the service, and were addressed by the Town Mayor, as well as Deputy Lieutenant Rear Admiral John Lippiett and Nick Gibb MP.

Major Butler said: "The numbers seemed to be higher than previously experienced, and you could see a whole range of ages turn out.

"It's good because I think the younger generation needs to be reminded of what people sacrificed.

"Otherwise you lose that direct contact with history and you forget.

"Everything seemed to run smoothly and it's always good to have so many different groups turn out.

About the war in Ukraine, he said: "Those people are in the same position as you and I really. They've never been near a weapon in their lives and they're being called on to defend their home.

"I think it really brings home the sacrifice of the first and second world wars, where the man on the street had to step up for something. I think it brings that reality home. War isn't a nostalgic thing to remember, it actually happens."

Pictures by Neil Cooper and Connor Gormley.