By KLTV Newsdesk –

Hundreds gathered in Huddersfield town centre on Sunday, 9 November, to honour the servicemen and women who gave their lives in conflict, as the town marked Remembrance Sunday with a moving service and parade.

The service, held at St Peter’s Parish Church in the town centre, brought together veterans, serving personnel, community leaders, and residents from across Kirklees.

Representatives from all major branches of the Armed Services, the Royal British Legion, local cadet forces, St John’s Ambulance, and the Fire and Rescue Service, and Kirklees Council, joined the procession, which started at Huddersfield Town Hall, moving past the Cenotaph in Market Square, before arriving at the church.

Despite the cooler November weather, the turnout was strong, with many coming to pay their respects both inside the church and during the procession, which made its way back to the town hall after the service.

The Mayor of Kirklees, Cllr Liz Smaje, finished with a poignant speech, emphasising the importance of continuing to remember the sacrifices of not only those who gave their lives in conflicts such as the World Wars, but also those who served and lost their lives in more recent conflicts, and those who are currently serving.

She said: “Not only do we recognise those who gave their lives in the service of their country, and recognizing the ongoing contribution from those who currently serve.

“We acknowledge and support those who sustained injuries, both physical and mental

“It is a sad fact that for many, there are no visible scars. For some, it can take over ten years before anyone realises the effects of the trauma they suffered.

“One seemingly minor incident might spark a reaction that can have a dramatic effect on family or working life.

“It is easier to identify a veteran on days like this, proudly displaying the medals or wearing barriers.

But on other days, we never know the secrets of the person next to us in the bus queue or at the supermarket checkout. Their service, their sacrifice, their hidden trauma.

“That is why we buy our poppies and contribute to the many charities that support our veterans. Whatever their age.

“Thank you for the support you have given them all this year and in the years to come.”

Image Credits: Christopher Morgan & Michael Brown