By Leah Conway
Following the recent COVID-19 restrictions, Kirklees Council is encouraging residents to stay at home and watch its online Remembrance Sunday service.
On Remembrance Sunday on 8 November, Kirklees Council is organising an online civic event. There will be a pre-recorded church service and wreath-laying by the Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Mumtaz Hussain, at Huddersfield Parish Church. During the service, there will also be a two-minute silence, which residents are encouraged to join.
In addition to the service, local landmarks will be lighting up red from 6 pm onwards on 8 November. Landmarks include Victoria Tower at Castle Hill and Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley, and Cleckheaton Town Hall.
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.”
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.”
Every year many Royal British Legion volunteers sell poppies around towns and in public spaces, even having a pop-up shop in Huddersfield in that past. Although this year they will be unable to assist with this. However, but you can still buy poppies in many supermarkets and find more information and help from the Royal British Legion’s website.
You can watch the online service on the Council’s website on Sunday 8 November.