Town centre streets set to be packed again for Melton Remembrance Sunday parade
Veterans and serving members of the military will be taking part again in the annual Remembrance Sunday parade through the streets of Melton Mowbray early next month.
Led by the Melton Band, it will feature representatives from the armed forces, Royal British Legion, Royal Airforce Association (RAFA), HMS Daring, Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR), army, and air cadets, local Scout and Guide groups, town clubs and members of the Polish community.
The parade – the culmination of the Poppy Appeal campaign to commemorate the sacrifices made by men and women in conflicts around the world – takes place on Sunday November 8.
Streets are expected to packed again to watch the procession as it starts out from the Chapel Street car park at 10.20am and passes through King Street, Sage Cross Street, Sherrard Street and Church Street, arriving at St Mary’s Parish Church for a Remembrance Service, which is due to start at 10.50am.
Following the church service, the parade will reassemble at approximately 11.50am in Burton Street and proceed along Leicester Street.
Participants will salute at the Market Place dais before making their way to the War Memorial Gardens, in the grounds of Egerton Lodge, where a wreath-laying ceremony will take place in remembrance of those who have served, and continue to serve, their country.
Mayor of Melton, Councillor Jim Adcock, said: “Remembrance Sunday is an important opportunity for our community to come together, pay tribute to those who have served our country, and remember the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, both past and present.
“The Remembrance parade and service are always a moving occasion in Melton, reflecting the strong support and respect our community has for the armed forces.
"I encourage residents and visitors, alike, to attend, whether by watching the parade or joining the service, as we take time together to remember and honour their service and sacrifice."
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of local veterans participating in the Remembrance parade, proudly wearing their medals and clothing from their service.
Veterans who wish to join their fellow servicemen and women are invited to assemble at Chapel Street car park prior to the start of the parade, where they will be welcome to join the procession.
Melton Borough Council is organising the event in collaboration with the Melton Mowbray Royal British Legion Club, Defence Animal Training Regiment, Melton Mowbray Town Estate, Leicestershire Police, Melton Lions, St Mary’s Church, Crouch Recovery, St Johns Ambulance, Nicks Taxis, Melton Town Band and RATAE Pipe Band.
To ensure the safety of all participants and attendees, road closures will be in effect throughout Melton Mowbray town centre from 9.30am through to 1pm.
Go to www.leicestershire.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/road-maintenance/roadworks-closures-and-diversions for full details of the closures on the Leicestershire County Council website.
The Melton Mowbray branch of the Royal British Legion will also be hosting a service to mark Armistice Day on Wednesday November 11.
This day marked the end of hostilities in the First World War in 1918. This service begins around 10.40am and will include the playing of the Last Post. All are welcome to attend.