News / city centre
People of Bristol line the streets for Remembrance Sunday
The people of Bristol lined the streets of the centre on Remembrance Sunday to commemorate the lives of servicemen and women who have fallen in the line of duty since the first world war.
It was a quiet and calm morning with the sun managing to come out and warm the skin of those expecting more of the brisk autumn air.
Several generations of families gathered, with children and pets in tow, all proudly wearing their poppies. Men and women escorted their partners as they strode through the crowds in military regalia.
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The crowds faced in towards the Cenotaph on Colston Avenue, gathering from 10:30am to witness the various military units, cadet contingents, the Bristol arms of the Scouts and veterans march into the centre.
Nothing more than a low and respectful chatter hummed through the crowds as they waited for the service to begin. Parents patiently jostled with their children in a successful attempt to keep them settled with the occasional giggle, the sound of dogs whining and the clattering of horse’s hooves on the tarmac.
Set to the sound of bagpipes and orders being bellowed, the occasional older man standing in the crowd saluted the oncoming units as they slowly occupied the street.
As the service began, a two-minute silence was observed before proceeding into prayer. The religious figures who took it in turn to speak all made reference to the fallen of past world wars and conflicts.
They invited the crowds to reflect on the ongoing conflicts across the world, in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan and other parts of the world.
Passage 2:2-4 from the Book of Isaiah was delivered, conjuring a sense of unity as they emphasised the flowing of nations into one.
The prayer was brought to a close by the laying of wreaths before the Cenotaph, and the final songs sung by choir.
Here is the parade and service in photos:
Bristol Cathedral Choir descends upon the Cenotaph
Religious figures gave speeches during the service
Lord lieutenant Peaches Golding was in attendance
Bagpipe players led the charge
Rows upon rows of different military units filed in
Some very happy looking military personal walking towards the centre
Flag bearers representing the different units of the military service
The canon being fired on College Green
All photos: Rob Browne
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