The day began with the flag raising in the town marketplace. Lots of people came to hear the the Branch Chaplain, The Mayor, The Branch Chair, and The Rector speak before the new flag was raised.

We were joined by Cadets and students from John Kyrle High School.

It was a very fitting start to a memorable day.

The evening's proceedings began with a wonderful sequence of reflection and commemoration in St Mary's Church. Students from John Kyrle High School had worked extremely hard to produce some wonderful presentations. There were moving contributions from veterans and those who remembered VE Day in 1945, and a beautiful ceremony where the light of hope was passed from a veteran to the younger members of the community. 

This was followed by a short liturgy, which included prayers, a reading, and the hymn 'I Vow To Thee My Country', which was sung with great gusto by the capacity congregation. The event was rounded off with an equally joyous singing of 'God Save The King', and then everyone sang 'We'll Meet Again', which was a moving end to the service. 

Well done to our Branch Chair, Paul Cummings for putting it all together and thanks to St Mary's Church for helping us to make it so special.