REMEMBRANCE: Dismayed by the outburst

Most people I have spoken to are, like me, dismayed that anyone should seek to undermine or overshadow the events of the day with their outbursts to the press on such a solemn occasion.

While the significance of the day in terms of the end of the First World War could not have been lost on anyone, the occasion was, as it always has been and always will be, a public tribute and remembrance of the fallen in all wars from the First World War to the present day.

People are able to visit the war memorial at any time, as some did at 6am that morning to watch pipers play as part of a national event to commemorate the time the Armistice was signed.

The time and venue of the later service and parade were published well in advance.

Alnwick has had an afternoon service and parade for the past 44 years and there has never been a suggestion from any quarter that it should be changed from the afternoon.

The excellent attendance at St Paul’s Church, on the town streets and at the war memorial speaks for itself.

I do not intend to say anything further in response to the letter, other than to assure readers that Alnwick Town Council will continue to work with the Royal British Legion to organise a fitting Remembrance Service and parade for the town.

Alan Symonds,

Mayor of Alnwick