More than 100 people braved wind and rain to honour Cheltenham's war dead

At 10:50 am on the 12th of November, the annual remembrance service and parade went ahead in the town of Cheltenham. Despite the gloom and rain, over 100 people came together by the war memorial on The Promenade to honour those who have passed. This tradition has gone on for over 105 years since the first World War.

The moving service began with hymns, speeches and then two minutes of silence at 11 am, which everyone took part in. People wore poppies and held crosses that were planted into the grass to remember the fallen soldiers.

Cheltenham's Conservative MP Alex Chalk, 47, attended the service and said: "We need to come together now more than ever to remember our heritage and our sacrifice."

The national anthem was also played by the band, as well as prayers, and although the weather wasn’t the greatest, people of all ages showed up. Lots of children were there, not only to observe the service, but also to take part. Red wreaths were laid at the war memorial by the mayor and other people, including councillors and representatives from Cheltenham.

Sarah, whose father was in the army, said: "My dad served 22 years in the army, so I always come. I used to come with him but now I come for him. Every year is special.”

The parade started shortly after and lasted for approximately 20 minutes. A few people began to leave but many did stay. People from the navy and the army took part in the parade. It was also lovely to see young children from local scouts groups, cubs and brownies, and it was clear that the entire service was important for many.

John Binns, a new Cheltenham resident, said it was his first year taking part after only just taking a job here. He said: “This is one of the best attended events I’ve seen in a long time.” He also expressed how important this day is for him after participating in various services for over 25 years.

Young cadets Athulya and Adwita said they enjoyed taking part in the service for the third year. Adwita said: “It is really nice, it’s like a big family coming together."