Stowmarket came together under beautiful autumn sunshine to pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service to our country. The Remembrance Parade and Service were a moving reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all who have served, past and present. It was great to see so many residents, organisations, and young people come together to honour our shared history and reflect on the importance of peace.
The commemorations, organised by Stowmarket Town Council, the Stowmarket branch of the Royal British Legion, and St Peter and St Mary’s Parish Church, were marked by a profound sense of community and remembrance.
The day began with the parade mustering at Red Gables on Ipswich Street. From there, members of the armed forces, cadets, local organisations, and residents marched through the town centre to St Peter & St Mary’s Church, arriving for a Civic Service of Remembrance.
Following the church service, the procession assembled in the Market Place and proceeded to the Recreation Ground Memorial Gates, where a brief service of remembrance took place, leading up to a moment of silence at 11am, where the town united in honouring all those affected by war. After the two-minute silence, representatives from local organisations and community groups laid poppy wreaths at the memorial, symbolizing their gratitude and respect.
Town Mayor Councillor David Child addressed those gathered:
“Today we pause, reflect and honour the sacrifice of so many who served our nation in times of conflict. Their courage and commitment live on in our shared memory.”
In addition to the Remembrance ceremony, a Peace Pledge Union service was held to reflect the ongoing suffering experienced by those impacted by conflict around the world. Speeches were delivered by Town Mayor Councillor David Child, Councillor Miles Row and Helene Thomas.
