Hailsham unites to honour the fallen at Remembrance Sunday commemorations

Residents, veterans, Armed Forces representatives, cadets, councillors and community organisations gathered in Hailsham on Sunday [8 November] to pay tribute to those who have given their lives in military service and remember all those affected by conflict.

The annual Remembrance Sunday commemorations brought together the local community for a morning of reflection, with events jointly organised by Hailsham Town Council, the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch and Hailsham Parish Church.

Proceedings began with a morning service at Hailsham Parish Church, led by the parish clergy, attended by representatives of the Town Council, veterans, Armed Forces personnel, families and members of local organisations.

Following the service, a parade assembled in Vicarage Field before making its way to Hailsham War Memorial. Led by the Hailsham & District Standard, the procession included veterans, local Army and Air Cadets, civic dignitaries and representatives of community groups, providing a visible expression of the town's collective respect and gratitude.

The main Act of Remembrance took place at the War Memorial just before 11am, where wreaths were laid in tribute to the fallen. The ceremony included the sounding of the Last Post, followed by the traditional two minutes' silence, as those gathered stood together to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of service personnel and civilians.

The commemorations concluded with refreshments at Hailsham Parish Church, where participants and members of the public had an opportunity to meet and reflect following the morning's proceedings.

Hailsham Mayor, Councillor Chris Bryant, said: "It was a privilege to stand alongside so many members of our community as Hailsham came together to mark Remembrance Sunday. There is something particularly moving about seeing different generations, from veterans who have served our country to young cadets taking their first part in these commemorations, united in a shared act of remembrance."

"While we rightly honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we must also remember the families, communities and civilians whose lives have been changed forever by conflict."

"I would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to the service and parade. The respect shown throughout the morning was a fitting tribute to those we remembered, and it was encouraging to see such strong community support for this important annual occasion."

Councillor Dave Chapman, Chair of the Town Council's Remembrance Day Sub-Committee, said: "A great deal of work takes place behind the scenes to coordinate Hailsham's Remembrance Sunday parade and service, and I am pleased that once again the town was able to come together to mark the occasion with the dignity it deserves."

"The participation of the Royal British Legion, veterans, cadets, local organisations and members of the public makes these commemorations what they are. It is particularly important that younger generations have the opportunity to understand the significance of Remembrance and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who came before them."

The Town Council extends its sincere thanks to the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch, Hailsham Parish Church, veterans, cadets, community organisations, volunteers and everyone who played a part in this year's commemorations. Thanks are also extended to Hailsham Bonfire Society for manning the road closures and providing marshals to make sure the service ran smoothly.