People of all ages came together in Frome on Sunday 8 November to mark Remembrance Sunday, paying their respects to those who lost their lives in conflict and reflecting on the impact of war, past and present. The commemorations brought together veterans, families, cadets, local organisations and residents. This year saw more wreaths laid than ever before, each with its own story to tell.
Alongside traditional wreaths representing the Nation, Town and Constituency were handmade tributes, including crocheted poppies and rosemary remembering a Polish father whose experiences of the Second World War were discovered through his daughter’s research. Wreaths were also laid on behalf of the Somerset African and Caribbean Network and displaced people affected by conflict today.
Pupils from Selwood created a striking centrepiece, bringing together red paper poppies made by each class to form one large poppy bearing the words ‘Lest We Forget’.
With music from Frome Town Band providing a backdrop, the town fell silent for two minutes, beginning with the Last Post played by Cadet Bugler Cpl Dillon Castle of Frome ACF.
The youngest Frome ACF cadet received the wreaths, including one from 101-year-old Royal Navy veteran John Oakey. Writhlington CCF provided the Parade Marshal and main contingent, and 13-year-old Frome 4th Guides Olivia and Liberty read In Flanders Fields.
Mayor of Frome, Cllr Mark Dorrington, said: “Sunday’s Remembrance Parade brought people of all ages together to pause, reflect and remember those who gave their lives in service, and recognise the impact of conflict around the world today. It was heart-warming to see so many people taking part, from veterans to young cadets and local residents, all paying their respects. My thanks go to the Royal British Legion, and especially Jane Norris, for the dedication and hard work that helped make this year’s commemorations so thoughtful and poignant.”
The commemorations continued on Armistice Day, Wednesday 11 November, with the Mayor attending the Frome College service at the Merlin Theatre. The Frome Royal British Legion also led observances at Frome Memorial and Rossetti House. The Mayor also presented a wreath on behalf of the town to the GWR Poppies to Paddington train, which joined the hundreds laid at the Paddington Station Memorial.
Jane Norris of Frome Royal British Legion said: “At a time when there is so much happening in the world, coming together in silence can sometimes be louder than any words. Battles have been fought and, sadly, continue to be fought. Everyone has their own reasons for remembering, and their own way of bearing witness. We will always remember. Lest we forget.”
Remembrance Sunday in Frome is organised by the Frome Branch of the Royal British Legion and supported by Frome Town Council.
