Kirklees landmarks to light up red for Remembrance Sunday

Due to the restrictions in place to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and rising infections rates, Kirklees Council is calling on residents to pay their respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice by watching an online service this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Remembrance Sunday 8 November 8, Kirklees Council is 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.

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.

“That’s why we’ve organised an online service so that even in these unprecedented times, our heroes are remembered.”

The Council is also encouraging residents to tune-in to the service on and to take part in a two-minute silence during the service.

There will be a national two-minute silence on November 11 (Armistice Day) which people are also encouraged to observe wherever they may be.

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

Councillor Mumtaz Hussain, Mayor of Kirklees, said: “I urge everyone to join me online in our service for all on Remembrance Sunday. 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.”