Horsham falls silent for Remembrance Sunday

The Last Post sounded just before 11am on Sunday (November 8), when those gathered observed a two-minute silence.

Reverend Canon Lisa Barnett led prayers during the ceremony, and Reveille marked the end of the silence.

Olivia Pinkney, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, led the wreath-laying. Joanne Knowles, who chairs Horsham District Council, laid a wreath on behalf of residents across the district.

Horsham MP John Milne, Horsham Royal British Legion branch chair Zäl Rustom and West Sussex County Council leader Councillor Jay Mercer also laid wreaths.

The ceremony closed with the national anthem, a reflection and a blessing. The parade then made its way to St Mary’s Parish Church for a service of remembrance.

Horsham District Council said councillor Knowles would join Royal British Legion members, local schoolchildren and other members of the public for a short Armistice Day service on Wednesday, November 11. A two-minute silence will be observed at 11am.

A council spokesperson said: “These events are organised in partnership with the Royal British Legion and are an opportunity to remember, commemorate and recognise the sacrifice of serving and civilian individuals who have ensured that the freedoms and way of life we treasure has been preserved.”