Lest we forget.

Our community was bursting with Remembrance activity today and it was all the most special because it was the first time for two years we could carry out the ceremonies and parades in full.

The Portslade parade and event was as special as ever with hundreds of local residents lining the streets and attending the service. The parade was made so special by the sheer number of cadets, Scouts and other youth organisations taking part. Every young person looked immaculate and performed their duties with such respect, it was a true credit to them and they did our community proud.

The Hove Remembrance service was also really well attended and I’m very grateful for Navy Cadet Oli who ceremonially handed me my wreath and escorted me to the cenotaph.

And then two further beautiful services, one at All Saints church and the other at the Reform Synagogue. It’s truly wonderful that we use this day to show our respects so fully to those who served our country and Commonwealth and lost their lives in military service.

And there’s even more! Sadly due to overlapping ceremonies I couldn’t make the services at Hove cemeteries where soldiers from recent wars lay but I’ve been in the past and will do so again.

One standout moment of the day was meeting Audrey Bromley. Her husband, Ray, was a stalwart of the British Legion and ran the Portslade service for many years. Sadly we lost him a few years ago but his son still leads the parade. Audrey’s 90 years old now and lights up any space she’s in – she’s one of the naughtiest people I know and laughter follows her everywhere so being her at the Easthill Park was a joy.

I hope you’ve had a lovely day too and had a moment to reflect in your own way.

Yours, Peter