Bedford Borough Council, the Bedford & District Branch of the Royal British Legion and other partners are proud to announce events to mark this year's Remembrance Day and Armistice Day in Bedford town centre.
Remembrance Sunday: Parade, Service of Remembrance and laying of wreaths
Sunday 8 November, from 10.30am
War Memorial, Bedford Embankment, what3words location: ///leave.river.fans
Remembrance Day unites people across faiths, cultures, and backgrounds to honour the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community from Britain and across the Commonwealth. The day also pays tribute to the special contribution of families and of the emergency services. It also acknowledges the innocent civilians who have lost their lives in conflict and acts of terrorism.
We suggest that people gather at the War Memorial ready for the Parade arriving from Russell Park.
Once the parade is formed up at the memorial the Service begins, and wreaths will be laid in memory of those who gave their lives in conflict around the world.
Following the service, the Parade will proceed along The Embankment, concluding in Harpur Square.
A full order of service for Remembrance Sunday can be seen at www.bedford.gov.uk/Order-Of-Service. For your ease, a QR code will be available on the day to view the order of service; there will also be a small number of paper versions.
There will be a limited number of spaces by the War Memorial for members of the public in wheelchairs, along with one carer per chair - these will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please note there will be a road closure in place from 9am on the Embankment for the service. Parking will be available at town centre car parks.
Armistice Day: A moment of reflection and two-minute silence
Wednesday 11 November, from 10.40am. Two-minute silence at 11am
Harpur Square, Bedford, What3words location: ///talent.skip.bared
Armistice Day commemorates the day and time when the guns fell silent, bringing to an end the hostilities of the First World War on 11 November 1918.
We invite the Bedford Borough community to join us in Harpur Square for a short ceremony commemorating this pivotal moment in history. Arrive at 10.40am to observe a poignant two-minute silence.
Poppies are available at locations across the Borough, including supermarkets and a stall in the Harpur Centre.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough said; “Remembrance is a time when we come together as a community to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our country, and to reflect on the impact of conflict on families, communities, and nations. I encourage everyone in Bedford Borough to join us in paying tribute, showing gratitude, and ensuring that the legacy of service and sacrifice is never forgotten.”
Robin Thomas, Chairman of Bedford & District Branch of the Royal British Legion added; "We warmly welcome the Bedford Borough community to participate in these important occasions. These events provide a chance to honour the dedication and sacrifices made by our brave service personnel, emergency services, and civilians affected by conflict.”
Many other Remembrance and Armistice Day events will be held across Bedford Borough. We encourage you to check local parish and town council websites, social media pages, newsletters, and noticeboards for details.