How Kirklees Council is set to mark Remembrance Sunday

Due to the restrictions in place to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, Kirklees Council has announced its plans to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and protect our freedom, in a safer way.

Victoria Tower at Castle Hill and Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley and Cleckheaton Town Halls will all light up red from 6pm onwards on November 8 as a mark of respect.

For Remembrance Sunday on November 8, Kirklees Council is also organising an online Civic event which will consist of a pre-recorded church service and wreath laying by the Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Mumtaz Hussain, at Huddersfield Parish Church.

The council will work with other Remembrance event organisers and partners to make sure that any services that are still going ahead have all the necessary measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Councillor Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day are two of the most significant days in our diary every year and this will always be the case.

“There is nothing more powerful than when we all come together each year to make sure our heroes are not forgotten and that we remember the sacrifices they made for the freedoms we all have today.

“However, we are not in normal times, and whilst paying our respects is just as important as ever, sadly this year we have to do this differently to protect people and to prevent the spread of COVID-19 – particularly as rates are continuing to increase.”

This year many of the Royal British Legion’s volunteer poppy-sellers are unable to assist with this activity. However, poppies will be available in many supermarkets up and down the country. For information on how to buy a poppy this year please visit the Royal British Legion’s website.

Councillor Mumtaz Hussain, Mayor of Kirklees, said: “I urge everyone to join me online in our service for all on Remembrance Sunday as the nation falls silent. Remember those who gave so much for us all but remember we are still fighting a pandemic so do all you can to stay safe and Remember from Home.

“I also urge everyone to once again support the Poppy Appeal. This is a powerful way to say thank you to those who have served in the past and also those serving in conflicts now. Wearing a poppy is a visible sign of our eternal gratitude.”